Packing Guidance for Cameroon

In general, most items you will need are available in country and locally acquired items are often the best at helping you integrate into your community. However, locally available items may not be the brands, quality, prices, or sizes you are used to. Bringing some key items from home might make your transition to service more comfortable.

This guidance has been compiled by Peace Corps staff and Volunteers and is based on their experience. Use this information as an informal guide as you make your own packing list, bearing in mind that each experience is individual. There is no perfect packing list!

This packing guidance is designed to help you think through different categories of items and consider what you might want to bring, considering work expectations, cultural considerations, and your own personal preferences.

Cameroon’s climate is as varied as its geography. The southern regions are tropical and humid, with an average temperature of about 25 °C (77 °F), while the northern regions are dry and hotter, averaging around 32 °C (89.6 °F). In the mountainous west, temperatures vary with altitude and become cooler at higher elevations.

Cameroon experiences two rainy seasons separated by two relatively dry periods. The first rains, known as the “mango rains,” occur in April and May and taper off into the drier months of June and July. A heavier rainy season follows from August through November, leading into the long dry season that lasts from December to March.

Peace Corps/Cameroon provides the following items to all Volunteers:

• Water filter: The tap and/or well water in Cameroon is not potable. All Volunteers receive a high-quality activated charcoal water filter for water purification after arriving in country.
• Mosquito net: Cameroon is a malaria endemic country. In addition to taking malaria prophylaxis, Peace Corps Volunteers are required to sleep under a mosquito net.
• Medical kit: Peace Corps/Cameroon provides all Volunteers with a medical kit. See the full list of items.
• Bicycle and helmet: Following your arrival at your permanent site, Peace Corps will provide a bicycle upon request. Helmets are provided for all Volunteers with bicycles.
• Motorcycle helmet: Moto taxi use is approved for Volunteers under specific conditions. Motorcycle use is strictly prohibited without prior training and all Volunteers must wear helmets issued by the Peace Corps while riding.
• Solar lamp
• Small solar panel
• Smoke detector
• Carbon monoxide detector
• Gas detector
• Fire extinguisher

Peace Corps/Cameroon provides on-demand stipends for the purchase of the following items:

• Basic smartphone: Peace Corps makes arrangements for Trainees to purchase a subsidized cell phone and SIM card shortly after arrival in Cameroon if they choose not to use their personal phone.
• Basic laptop: A laptop is essential for accessing online learning courses, training materials, and completing quarterly reports. Peace Corps/Cameroon recommends Volunteers who have used and/or have inexpensive laptops to bring them. For those who are unable to bring a laptop or have their personal laptop lost, stolen, or damaged while in country, Peace Corps/Cameroon provides a onetime only stipend for Volunteers to buy a personal laptop.

Peace Corps Volunteers are not allowed to take:

• Pets
• Weapons
• Explosives
• Radio transmitters (shortwave radios are permitted)
• Drones
• Automobiles or motorcycles
• Flammable materials or liquids such as lighter fluid, cleaning solvents, hair spray, or aerosol containers
• Valuables such as precious jewelry or family heirlooms

Drugs

Do not bring any drug that has not been authorized by the Peace Corps for medical purposes without prior consultation with Office of Health Services Pre-Service. This includes prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Illicit drugs, including marijuana and related products such as CBD and herbal substances such as kratom, are prohibited during Peace Corps service, even if they are legal in your home of residence. If you use, possess, or distribute illicit drugs, you will be administratively separated from service.

Excessive clothing

A big part of integration is learning to source necessary items locally. After arriving in Cameroon, many Volunteers find they have packed too much clothing and too many shoes. See clothing section for further guidance.

Work supplies

For the Education, Health, and Agriculture sectors, Peace Corps/Cameroon promotes the use of local resources in Volunteer work. This presents a challenge as many schools, clinics, and agricultural suppliers have limited resources. One task of the Volunteer is to work with counterparts to identify local solutions to resource constraints using available means. Because of this, we discourage Volunteers bringing job aids from outside that may create conditions that are not replicable after the Volunteer’s departure.

Fixed-blade hunting/camping knives

Cooking knives and folding pocketknives are legal/permissible in Cameroon. However, fixed blade hunting or camping knives of any length are considered weapons and are prohibited.

Food

Many Volunteers bring high nutrition snack foods such as trail bars, nuts, or candy bars to assist in transitioning to the local diet during the first few weeks of training. Please do not bring large quantities of food. Part of cultural integration is learning to embrace and share local ways of eating.

Clothing

Buying fabric and having clothes made locally is easy, affordable, and a great way to integrate into your community. It is advisable to pack versatile items and then supplement your wardrobe in-country after receiving your site assignment. Since tailoring is relatively inexpensive, bringing images of clothing styles can help you show tailors what you would like them to reproduce. You can also ask them to copy an existing piece of clothing.

Most local fabrics feature bold designs and vibrant colors, so consider bringing solid-colored shirts or pants if you prefer more subdued apparel. Jeans and solid-colored shirts can also be purchased in second-hand markets. Volunteer should expect that clothes will not withstand two years of wear, frequent hand washing in buckets, line-drying, and exposure to sweat and rough conditions.

In some parts of Cameroon where communities are more conservative, there may be specific expectations about how women should dress. Once you are at your permanent site and can observe local norms, you can determine how conservatively you need to dress. The basic rule is to wear clothing that covers your shoulders, torso, and knees—avoid spaghetti straps and tank tops. Wearing traditional clothing specific to your site or region is usually well regarded and appreciated.

General clothing

• Sturdy cotton shirts in dark colors. Avoid white or light-colored garments that stain or discolor easily.
• Pants with elastic waists, wrap tops or skirts, or any forgiving styles to accommodate possible weight fluctuations, as some Volunteers lose or gain weight.
• Comfortable, breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen are more comfortable than synthetic fabrics like polyester. Loose-fitting pants are generally cooler than jeans.
• Lightweight long-sleeved shirts and long pants to protect against mosquitoes in the evening.
• Hoodie, sweater or fleece for chilly nights.
• Lightweight rain jacket (especially useful during the rainy season for Agriculture Volunteers).
• Hats or baseball caps for sun protection.

Work clothing

• Business casual clothes, including slacks, khaki pants, dresses, skirts, button-up shirts and blouses.
• One dressy outfit for ceremonial occasions. Many Volunteers often have outfits made locally for formal events and work settings.
• Agriculture Volunteers will be given supplies, which include rubber boots and work gloves. They should bring clothing suitable for outdoor work in rain, mud, and sun.
• Education Volunteers (teachers) should maintain a professional appearance in the classroom.
• Health Volunteers should look professional, though their work environment is less formal than for Education Volunteers.

Leisure and recreational clothing

• Casual but presentable clothing for informal and after-work occasions, as well as sports activities. Note: shorts and skirts worn outside the home should be at least knee-length.
• Bathing suit or swim trunks for swimming or water activities.

Undergarments

Underwear and bras are available in Cameroon, but items equivalent in quality to the U.S. will be more expensive. Underwear tends to wear out more quickly due to rough washing and line drying. If you need special sizes or have quality or brand preferences, we recommend you bring a 2-year supply or anticipate asking a friend or family member to resupply you through care packages.

Durable shoes are an essential investment. Shoes will wear out more quickly in Cameroon than you are likely accustomed due to all the walking you will do and the rough terrain. Shoes are available for purchase in Yaounde and regional market towns and come both second hand and new.

Shoes are available in a large variety of quality and sizes, but may be difficult at first to locate. Less common sizes such as extra wide, or men’s size 15+ are especially difficult to find, if not impossible. Beware of white/light colored shoes and suede as they may be difficult to keep clean.

We recommend that you use the guidance below and bring at least one pair of each type of shoe to get you started.

• Comfortable dress shoes for formal or ceremonial occasions.
• Durable, comfortable walking shoes, such as sturdy sandals, for everyday use.
• Running or athletic shoes for exercise and sports activities.
• Sturdy work boots or hiking boots, especially important for Agriculture Volunteers
• Flip-flops and slides can be easily found in-country.

You should bring a 3-month supply of any prescription and/or over the counter medications you use that are authorized/approved by the Peace Corps.

Prior to service, Peace Corps supplies all Volunteers with a medical kit containing basic over-the-counter medications as well as multivitamins.

The medical unit will replenish prescriptions after the initial 3-month training.

If you wear eyeglasses, bring two pairs (of the current prescription) with you. Contact lens use will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Additional guidance: Medical Care During Service

Recommendations

Bring the toiletry items that are important to you. Some items might be hard to find in-country or expensive. Here are some suggestions for at least an initial 3-month supply during training:

• Toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss
• Shampoo, conditioner, soap
• Lotion face wash and facial creams
• Anti-perspirant
• Sunblock
• Chapstick
• Sanitary pads and tampons: the Peace Corps supplies Diva Cups and/or Tampax tampons, but they may not always be the style you want.
• Sturdy hairbrush or wide-toothed comb
• Manicure/pedicure items (including nail clippers, emery boards)
• Cosmetics and hair products including hair bands, clips
• Acne treatment
• Cologne/perfume
• Antibacterial wipes or hand sanitizer (small supply for your initial travel)

Hair care in Cameroon

Salons and barbers in Cameroon primarily specialize in African hair. In the capital city, Yaoundé, there are salons and barber shops that can cater to non-African hair. Many Volunteers rely on fellow Volunteers for haircuts and other grooming needs.

Consider bringing rechargeable clippers or trimmers, haircutting scissors, razors (plastic razors are available locally, but a rechargeable one may be more convenient), and other grooming accessories or hygiene products that meet your personal needs.

Voltage (V)

Cameroon runs on 220 V. Most phone, tablet, and laptop chargers are compatible with both 120 V (US standard) and 220 V. Electronics sold in Cameroon are 220 V compatible. When considering bringing any electronics or electric appliances from the U.S., note that items that are only 120 V-compatible may burn out, catch fire, or damage the battery if they are plugged into 220 V. A power converter will be needed for appliances that are not 220 V-compatible. Power converters are available in Cameroon but can be expensive. Consider rechargeable appliances that are both 120 and 220 V-compatible when possible. A voltage regulator is recommended and can be purchased in Cameroon.

Power surges

The electrical grid in Cameroon is unreliable with frequent power outages and power surges. We recommend using a surge protector when plugging in your electronics. Surge protectors are available in Cameroon but may not be of the same quality and/or standard as compared to the U.S. When buying a surge protector, make sure that it is 220 V-compatible. If possible, consider bringing a surge protector that can plug into Type C electrical sockets.

Access and reliability

Access to electricity varies greatly by site. Some locations will have electricity, while others will not. Many Volunteers find extra batteries, battery extenders, and solar chargers very useful for keeping phones and other small devices charged.

Keep in mind that Cameroon’s heat and dust can be hard on electronic devices. Consider durability and lower-cost options over high-end models that may not last under these conditions. While some Volunteers prefer Apple products, items like MacBooks are less available in-country and more difficult to repair if they break.

Smartphones

You will need a reliable way to access the internet and use calling and messaging features. Most Volunteers and Cameroonians use WhatsApp for communication, although there are times when the network only supports basic texting.

While you will have the option to purchase a Peace Corps-subsidized phone in-country, these devices may not be as fast, functional, or familiar as what you are used to. If you have a preference and can afford it, it is recommended to bring your own smartphone from the U.S. It does not need to be brand new—older models work well.

Key considerations:

• Bring an unlocked phone that can support two SIM cards (one physical and one eSIM).
• A phone operating on 4G or 4G+ is preferable, as 5G networks may not be available.
• Protective cover and screen protector recommended.
• Most Cameroonians use Android, and Apple products often have compatibility issues with local carriers.

Laptops

You will need a device for reporting and online learning. While Peace Corps offers subsidized laptops in-country, these may not be as fast or familiar as what you are used to. If possible, bring your own device from the U.S.; older models work well.

Recommended specifications:

• Non-Apple laptop or Android tablet with keyboard and mouse
• Excel or spreadsheet software
• Word or note-taking software
• Access to Google Chrome (required for Peace Corps’ online reporting system)
• Virus protection
• Network connectivity
• Headphones (for taking calls and remote meetings)
• Chargers (and backups)
• Plug adapters and converters (Type C/E to Type A/B; consider a power brick with USB ports) B
• Backup cables and surge protectors

Power and storage

• Small power converter (as needed for small electric appliances)
• Power bank (check airline regulations for size restrictions)
• USB flash drives (bring a convertible flash drive if you use Apple devices for document sharing)
• External hard drive or SSD (1–5 TB)
• HDMI cord

Other electronics and accessories

• E-reader
• Camera and accessories (SD cards or film, protective cover) if photography is important to you
• Backup screen protectors and cases
• Reliable watch (durable, water-resistant, inexpensive; consider bringing an extra battery if not analog)
• Rechargeable batteries and battery charger
• Headlamp or flashlight (rechargeable or solar-powered)
• Rugged Bluetooth speaker

Based on your interests and personal preferences, you may want to bring additional items with you. Below is guidance based on categories of items Volunteers have said they enjoy having and that may be difficult to find in‑country. These items are not required or recommended, but they may be nice to have depending on your personal preference.

Arts and crafts

Arts and craft supplies are generally unavailable or expensive in Cameroon. They can be an excellent way to engage children and community members. Consider bringing the materials you would enjoy using. While arts and crafts supplies can sometimes be found in Yaoundé, locating the shops or vendors may be challenging. If you are creative, hardware stores offer many materials that can be repurposed for artistic projects.

Books

Volunteers often bring paperback books and e-readers. E‑readers are especially useful since you can download many books before arriving. Our office has a small physical library, but you may not find specific titles you want. Anglophone bookstores are rare, and reading culture is limited. Keep in mind that some sites may have inconsistent access to electricity for charging devices. A small power bank or solar charger can help ensure many hours of reading during downtime.

Camping

Travel and camping can be complicated. Many popular tourist areas are currently off limits due to ongoing conflicts. Food and purified water are widely available, and roadside vendors are common. Most Volunteers have an extra mattress, so extensive camping gear is unnecessary when visiting fellow Volunteers. While there is not a need for extensive camping gear, you might consider a very lightweight sleeping bag or just a liner for traveling.

Cooking

Cooking and sharing food builds community, and many Volunteers find comfort in exploring local cuisine. Cooking in Cameroon is typically done in pots rather than pans, and food is often cut in the hands using small knives. Meals are traditionally cooked outdoors over coal or wood fires to keep heat out of the home. Volunteers receive two‑burner gas stoves. Cutting boards are available in supermarkets, and wooden ones can sometimes be found in larger markets. If you enjoy cooking, consider bringing a good‑quality pan, a small cutting board, a reliable chef’s knife with a sharpening rod, and any other essential kitchen tools. High‑quality cookware and knives can be difficult to find locally.

Seasoning

Imported herbs and spices are expensive and hard to find. Some Volunteers bring an assortment of dried spices or seasoning mixes, such as taco seasoning, chili, Italian, or garam masala, to add a taste of home. While local spices are plentiful, familiar options like cinnamon, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and curry powder are worth bringing. To prevent caking due to humidity, pack silica packets or other moisture absorbers. Excellent West African spices can be found in local markets.

Spicy foods

Food in Cameroon is “self‑spiced.” Restaurants often provide spicy sauce separately for customers to add as they prefer. In general, dishes are not inherently spicy. Many people make their own hot sauce using onion, habanero, and garlic.

Coffee

Although Cameroon is a coffee‑producing country, coffee culture is not widespread. Instant coffee (such as Nescafé) is common and available everywhere. Bulk ground coffee is available in most medium‑sized cities, and whole bean coffee can mostly be found in Yaoundé. Many coffee‑drinking Volunteers bring a metal French press (glass may break in transport); moka pots and pour‑over devices also work well. Kettles are available locally, but electricity reliability varies, making electric coffee makers difficult to use consistently.

Gardening

Depending on housing arrangements, many Volunteers take up gardening as a physical outlet and to grow herbs and vegetables that may be harder to find in rural areas. Basic tools and common seed varieties are available in local markets, and plants grow easily—sometimes too easily. If you want specific varieties, consider bringing your own seeds.

Games

Cameroon has its own version of mancala called “Songo,” though it may not be widely played in all areas. Local card games exist but are often associated with gambling, which can sometimes lead to physical altercations; play responsibly and avoid gambling. Board games are available in Yaoundé malls. Ludo (a boardgame similar to Sorry!) is extremely popular and widely recognized. Other games—such as cards, Uno, Settlers of Catan, or similar small board and card games—can be engaging tools for community connection. Just no gambling!

Gifts

While not required, small gifts can help build rapport with host families and community members. Calendars featuring American scenes, small coffee table books, photos of yourself in the United States, or simple keepsakes are often appreciated.

Household goods

If you are particular about bedding, consider bringing your own sheets. Most Volunteers do not, but those who prefer specific styles may appreciate having one or two sets from home. The quality of sheets available in Yaoundé malls is comparable to an average U.S. hotel, but may be double or triple the price compared to the US. Cotton sheets are available but may not be high quality. Bring any essential household items you cannot do without, as they may be difficult or expensive to find locally.

Music

Music is an important part of Cameroonian culture. A small portable Bluetooth speaker can help you connect with community members. Speakers are sold in most markets but may be low quality. If you play a musical instrument, keep in mind that the climate can be hard on instruments and that they may be subject to theft. Do not bring instruments of high monetary or sentimental value. Instruments can be excellent tools for integration but bring repair supplies such as extra strings, picks, or bows, as repair shops are rare.

Personal items

Sharing photos of your home and family can help build connections with your community and work partners. Consider bringing a small photo album with printed photos or a curated digital album, being mindful of images that may not be appropriate for conservative settings. Printed photos can also serve as meaningful wall décor. Bring personal or sentimental items that help you feel grounded but avoid bringing anything you could not bear to lose or damage.

Photography

Many Volunteers use smartphones for photography. More avid photographers may bring cameras but should be aware of theft risks. Cameras often attract attention. Consider how you plan to use your equipment, especially when taking photos of people. Peace Corps Cameroon strongly discourages “extractive” photography, and taking photos without consent can cause conflict. Always ask before photographing others. Most people enjoy having their photo taken—just not without permission. Avoid filming or vlogging in large markets without explicit consent.

Sports

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Cameroon. Sports can be a great way to connect with communities and students. Local soccer clubs are common, and showing up with a football will quickly attract participants. Footballs are available locally, but other equipment—such as frisbees, baseballs and gloves, or badminton gear—is harder to find. Handball is also popular. Basketball, volleyball, and tennis balls may be available but are less common.

Travel and other items

Travel in Cameroon—both domestic and international—can be long and challenging. Bring durable bags that can withstand being tossed or compressed, as well as a travel pack that can be worn comfortably (such as a 30L bag or a duffel with backpack straps). Within communities, motorcycles (motos) are the primary form of transport. Backpacks and duffels are easier to balance on a moto than hard‑shell suitcases. When traveling outside your community, buses are common, and bags are often placed on the roof. Tarps are used, but a semi‑waterproof bag is recommended. A protective case for your computer can be useful, though limiting travel with a laptop is safest. Be aware of customs procedures and potential fees when bringing expensive items into Cameroon. Peace Corps/Cameroon advises Volunteers place TSA approved locks on all checked bags when flying into Cameroon or traveling internationally.