This list has been compiled by Volunteers serving in-country and is based on their experience. Use it as an informal guide in making your own list, bearing in mind that each experience is individual. There is no perfect list! You obviously cannot bring everything on the list, so consider those items that make the most sense to you personally and professionally. You can always have things sent to you later. As you decide what to bring, keep in mind there is a 100-pound weight limit on baggage. And remember, you can get almost everything you need in-country.

Baggage & weight limit: The Peace Corps limits the size and weight of baggage and will not pay to transport baggage that exceeds these limits. The allowance is two checked pieces of luggage with combined dimensions of both pieces not to exceed 107 inches (length + width + height) and a carry-on bag with dimensions of no more than 45 inches. Checked baggage should not exceed 100 pounds total with a maximum weight of 50 pounds per bag.

Peace Corps Volunteers are not allowed to take pets, weapons, explosives, radio transmitters (shortwave radios are permitted), automobiles, or motorcycles to their assignments. Do not pack flammable materials or liquids such as lighter fluid, cleaning solvents, hair spray, or aerosol containers.

General Clothing

All Volunteers will need an assortment of clothing for work, play, and socializing. Suitable attire for male teachers includes slacks with a nice shirt and an optional tie. For female Volunteers, suits, dresses, and skirts that are not too short, or nice slacks with blouses are all suitable. For both men and women, nice jeans (but not ripped or torn), dressed up with a nice shirt and jacket, are also acceptable in many situations, especially social ones. For most places outside of Pristina, a more conservative approach to dressing is appropriate for women. Clothing is expensive because most of it is imported, so it is best to bring most of what you will need. Shipping clothes from the States is also possible but expensive.

• Two or three pairs of fleece or silk long underwear
  
• Several sweaters
  
• Scarves, hats, and gloves (waterproof and breathable if possible)
  
• Winter socks (wool)
  
• Windproof and waterproof coat
  
• Winter coat (the winters are very cold)
  
• Jeans
  
• Clothing for warmer weather
  

Shoes

• Hiking boots made of leather, waterproof, and lightweight
  
• Work shoes
  

Personal Hygiene and Toiletry Items

• A wide variety is available in Kosovo, so do not pack extra toothpaste, toilet paper, dental floss, or shampoo.
  
• Three-month supply of any medications, to last through pre-service training; copy of prescriptions
  
• If you wear glasses, bring two pairs (contact are not recommended due to elevated rates of eye infections and contact solution is hard to find)
  

Miscellaneous

• If you plan to travel to other countries for vacation, you may want to bring extra money to suit your travel plans; credit cards or traveler's checks are preferable to cash. There are ATMs in larger cities, and most towns so you may want to bring an ATM card to access a bank account in the U.S.
  
• Small gifts for host family and friends (not required); knickknacks for the house; pictures, books, or calendars of American scenes; souvenirs from your area; hard candies that will not melt or spoil; photos to give away
  
• Favorite recipes
  
• Plastic measuring cups and spoons
  
• Alarm clock
  
• Backpack
  
• Money pouch or belt
  
• Personal checks from a U.S. checking account
  
• ATM/Credit card
  
• Laptop computer
  
• Flashlight/Headlamp
  
• Sewing and tool kits
  
• Compact sleeping bag