Packing Suggestions
Be sure checked luggage, carry on bag or book bag,and cameras are clearly labeled
with your name, address, etc. Consider putting labels on everything.
Try to pack everything in see-through bags. Be knowledgeable of any carry-on regulations.
Note: The airline will allow one checked bag (up to 50 lbs.) and a carry-on bag.
However . . . you will want to pack as light as possible
You will possibly have to carry items to/from the airport to destinations.
Carry-on Bag should possibly (probably) contain the following:
- Things to do on the airline (books, CDs, etc.) Consider a small tour book about
your destination - Toiletries (extra deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
- Some clothes in case there is a problem with luggage arrival
- Instant stain remover (Tide-to-Go works well)
- Camera
- Flashlight (very small)
- Kleenex
- Snacks, gum, etc.
- Addresses for family and friends (consider typing out labels before you go)
- Items for headache and indigestion/diarrhea (Imodium)
(Changes in food, time zone, and routine sometime cause minor problems) - Motion sickness medication for ferry, plane, and bus (Dramamine)
- Any other medications or prescriptions you might need
* Make a copy of all of your prescriptions, listing the prescription descriptions,
dosage, doctor’s and pharmacy from where you purchase it. - Using an ATM is recommended
Carry very little cash - Neck pillow
- Ear phones
- Ear plugs
- Travel slippers (socks)
- Eye shades
- Business cards (if appropriate)
Clothing items
Note:It is recommended that you list everything piece of clothing that you take.
Consider taking as many “wrinkle free” and “quick-drying” items as possible.
- Comfortable shoes
- Light jacket (water resistant is best)
- Appropriate garments for business meetings
* Suit/blazer for men, appropriate business attire for women (ties for men) - Appropriate attire for class sessions
- Undergarments
- handkerchiefs
- Socks/hose
- Pajamas (etc.)
- Casual evening attire
- swimsuit
Packing Suggestions (non-clothing)
- Voltage converter: You will probably not need an electrical adapter, as the Republic of Panama uses the same electrical arrangement as in the US.
- Small backpack to take with you each day
- Flashlight (take extra batteries if necessary)
- Money belt or money holder that fits around neck. Place money in one of these or at least in a front pocket. NEVER place your wallet a rear pocket!
- If you plan on buying a large number of souvenirs, place an expandable bag into your suitcase in which to place them on the way home
- Camera
* extra batteries for camera
* film for a non-digital camera - Umbrella (both men and women should plan on taking a small one)
- Sunglasses
- Extra contact lenses or eyeglasses (if necessary)
- Woolite (small container )
- Currency converter ( cell phone, small calculator)
- Snacks (you might not like the food on a specific day)
- Plastic bag for dirty clothes
- Writing pens
- Wrist watch (don’t take an expensive one)
- Alarm clock (if necessary)
- Very small first aid kit (just a couple of band-aids)
- Very small sewing kit
- Compass (or use your cell phone)
Money Exchange
- Regular bank ATM cards (not credit cards) provide the best exchange rate
- Suggest taking a bank ATM card
- Most credit card companies now charge a 2-4%surcharge on any purchases made outside
the U.S. - How much money do you need?$25-$50 a day depending on how many items you purchase while we are there. Many people purchase a few souvenirs, some purchase many.
- Everyone will need money for about two meals per day.