Congratulations on receiving your call! You have big things ahead of you. As you start preparing for your upcoming mission, you're likely wondering what kinds of clothing items you'll need to pack. Some items will depend on the climate of the location to which you've been called, but many of the clothing items you'll need are the same across the board.
What to Pack for Your Upcoming Mission
Shirts and Tops
It's typically recommended that you bring 10-12 blouses with you on mission. You'll want to choose tops that are appropriate for the climate in which you're sent. Try to choose colors and patterns that are professional, conservative, and are not distracting. Choosing neutral colors is always a good idea, but you shouldn't be afraid to choose other prints or colors either.
You'll want your shirts to have varying sleeve lengths, but when in doubt, it's recommended to opt for ¾ length sleeves as they can easily transition from formal to casual.
You'll also want to pack 10-12 simple shirts that can be used as sleepwear/loungewear, active wear, and for P-days.
Skirts, Dresses, and Pants
For your upcoming mission, you'll want to bring 1-2 formal dresses, 3-4 casual dresses, and 6-8 skirts. Keep in mind that you'll want to choose dresses and skirts that are made from material that doesn't easily wrinkle and you'll want more a-line skirts and dresses than anything else (particularly if you know you'll be riding a bike). You will also want 1-2 pairs of jeans for P-day and other activities.
Any non-distracting colors and patterns are permitted, but we recommend choosing neutral or solid colors so that you have more outfit combinations. You'll also want to choose lighter-weight materials if you're going to be in a hot and humid climate, and heavier-weight materials if you're going to be in a cold climate.
Outerwear
What types of outerwear you should bring will be noted in your call packet and will depend on the climate of the location to which you've been called. Here are some recommendations based on the types of outerwear you might be asked to bring:
- Hooded Jackets: 3-in-1 systems are recommended so that you can adapt with temperature variations. If you're going to be in a colder climate, you'll want to make sure to bring an insulated hooded jacket.
- Regular Jackets: You'll want activewear jackets and suit jackets for your mission, with fabric determined by climate.
- Parkas and Windbreakers: We recommend bringing a parka with a removable hood so that you can adapt with temperature variations at your mission location.
- Coats: You'll want to bring 1-2 coats, and what type you bring depends on your mission location. You can choose from long winter coats, puffer coats, duffle coats, wool coats, rain coats (highly recommended if you're called to a tropical location), etc.
- Blazers, Sweaters, and Cardigans: It's recommended that you bring one blazer, 2-4 nicer sweaters, and 2-3 cardigans.
- Cold weather accessories: Obviously, if you're going somewhere warm, you won't need such items. However, if you're going to a cold location, you'll want to bring neutral colored gloves, scarves, ear-muffs, and beanies with you.
Sleepwear and Loungewear
One of the best tips we've heard over the years is for you to pack long sleeve shirts for sleepwear and loungewear, no matter your assigned location. If you're in cold weather, they'll keep you warm. If you're in humid climates, you'll have extra protection from mosquitos.
For your mission, you'll want to pack two sets of pajamas, 4-5 joggers/sweatpants, 4-5 pullovers/sweatshirts, 5-7 shirts, and a robe (optional, but recommended)
Tights and Socks
When packing socks and tights, you'll want to ensure you have variety. It's recommended for you to pack 8-10 different types of socks and tights, including:
- Crew and knee-high socks
- Compression socks
- Wool socks
- Liner socks
- No show socks
- Nylons
Make sure to choose non-distracting colors and patterns that complement the other items you've packed away as outfits.
Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and likely biking, so any shoes you bring will need to be comfortable and durable. Choose shoes with thicker soles, good arch support, waterproofing or resistance, and that aren't bulky (taking up too much room in your limited luggage). You'll want:
- 2-3 pairs of walking shoes
- 1-2 pairs of dress shoes
- 1-2 pairs of running shoes
- 1-2 pairs of winter boots (if going to a cold climate)
- 1-2 pairs of flip-flops (recommended for shower use) or indoor slippers
Do You Have Everything You Need?
If you're looking for clothing items for your upcoming mission, we can help. Stop into one of our stores to look at our selections, or check out our online store to see what we have!