In previous blog posts we have talked about how to prepare yourself mentally for a solidarity trip or volunteering, but in this post we will talk about things like having your passport in order, your visa or what to pack.
Passport
As most of you will know, having a valid passport is vital. Make sure that the renewal date is not within the months of your stay, otherwise take into account that the procedure for renewal may take even months.
Visa
We continue with the documentation part, the visa is required by many countries to be able to do the long stay volunteering, it has a process that can take even more than a month. Therefore, find out what type of visa is required to travel to your destination. You can request it online or in person at the embassy of your destination country.
Criminal background check
This document is sent to the NGO before departure, can be easily obtained online and is sure to be requested.
Phone
We recommend that you bring a free phone with you on your volunteer trip, and that you buy a sim card in the country of destination, so that you have a local number and pay the local rates. You can also choose to have a double sim card (yours and the local one).
Essential information
- Contact and address of the NGO
- Contact and address of the Spanish embassy in the country of destination
- Emergency and/or police contact
Clothing
As far as clothing is concerned, it all depends on the season in which your destination country is located and the type of climate they have. In general, we recommend that you take comfortable clothes, tracksuits and/or similar sportswear with you. Sportswear and many socks are almost mandatory for this type of trip.
You should also make sure that your accommodation will provide you with towels and sheets or that you have to buy them yourself.
International plug adapter
A very forgotten lifesaver, remember that not all countries have the same plugs as yours, you can buy an international adapter in many websites, including Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/).
First Aid Kit
It never hurts to carry a small bag of mosquito spray, sunscreen, strips, and ibuprofen or paracetamol tablets.
These are all recommendations not to forget to prepare your backpack well.
Happy journey!