Since keeping this website online, I’ve had a number of people contact me, asking questions about joining the Peace Corps, living in Nepal, and quite a few about what to bring for the Peace Corps.
First, let me say that my earlier packing list was way, way, way too much stuff.
Here is my addendum:
- Pack light: I mean really, really light. You’ll be so glad you did.
- Bring only two bags that you’ll use: I packed two bags inside my duffel, which worked great
- Bring more fun items: Things like music, books, art supplies, a Frisbee, stationary, journals, games, etc., go a long, long way
I am glad that I brought some nice clothes with me. I think many of the woman who I know wished they had nicer, conservative clothes, since woman usually spend their days in the kurta surwal, common dress for women in the Terai.
Peace Corps has several good Nepali books, including Teach Yourself Nepali and Nepali in Context. The tapes aren’t available from Peace Corps, but you can easily have them copied (shops that will dub tapes and CDs are plentiful). A PCVs in Nepal will have them. Hell, I had ‘em.
One more note on music. If you’re a music lover, I suggest bringing something hardy and flexible. In Kathmandu, MiniDiscs are available and the most affordable option.
Most shops sell a wide variety of music, from Brian Eno to Britany Spears. They’ll convert music digitally to minidiscs. They’ll also burn MP3 CDs for you, but it’s pricier.
A MD player that can encode directly from a source is a wonderful way to copy your friends CDs while in the mountains on vacation. Some MP3 players can do this, too.
Here are some things that I wish I’d brought from the States with me:
- 110 to 220 voltage converter
- Quality NiMH battery charger
- Pinochle cards
- Nylon zip-off pants (several pairs)
- Lexan coffee press (glass will break)
- Laptop
All of these items I have had sent to me here in Nepal and have arrived intact. Arranging having a laptop sent from around the world was tricky, to say the least (the service cost me buying a friend a fine meal in Kathmandu—thanks again, Colin).
I’m still thinking of things I should have brought and shouldn’t have, but nothing major. My main advice is pack light, pack light, and pack light.
