What to bring

Try to travel light

Packing too much may tempt you to set down your personal belongings while in public. Don’t bring anything you’d hate to lose, such as:

  • Irreplaceable family objects
  • All unnecessary credit cards
  • Social security card

Limit your valuables to those things you must have to accomplish what you’d like to on your trip. Examples: 1 or 2 Credit Cards, Passport, Camera, charger, memory sticks

Carry valuables in your carry-on suitcase or bag. It’s always good to pack a set of clothing in your carry-on in case of unexpected circumstances.

It is recommended to leave laptops at home, though you can leave them locked in your room at the hotel. Wi-fi internet access is available at the hotel in Antigua and at the hotel in San Martin, although it will be slower than what you are used to at home!

What to wear

Guatemalan culture generally has more conservative dress standards, particularly for women. While working on the bottle school, both men and women should wear jeans or work pants, not shorts. Women should avoid revealing tops, such as tops with spaghetti straps, and stick to wearing T-shirts. If in doubt, err on the side of caution and seek advice rather than risking causing offense. Antigua is a touristy town, and it’s acceptable to wear shorts and revealing tops there, but not in San Martin.

Packing list

  • Reusable water bottle (we will provide purified water so you can refill your bottle)
  • Sunglasses
  • Shoes that are comfortable, but can get dirty
  • Good thick socks
  • Earplugs
  • Sunhat
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Packaged energy foods for snacking – granola bars, trail mix, raisins, candy bars
  • Camera (with enough memory cards!)
  • Your Travel Health Kit:
    • Prescriptions you normally take
      • Pack in your carry-on and bring extra in case of unanticipated travel delays
      • If your life depends on any of your medications please make your trip leader aware immediately after booking your trip
    • A daily probiotic to take while in Guatemala if you tend to have a sensitive stomach
  • Special prescriptions
    • You doctor may have recommendations for preventative medicines to help you on your trip (i.e. anti-malaria, anti-diarrheal)
    • Any over-the-counter medicines that you or your doctor feel you may need
  • Other important items:
    • Insect repellant (30-50% DEET or up to 15% picardin)
    • Anti-itch aide (ointment, spray, pill, hydrocortisone cream) for insect bites
    • Sunscreen (SPF 15 or greater with both UVB and UVA protection)
    • Anti-bacterial wipes
    • Health insurance card