Because this mission are islands off the coast of West Africa, and all transfers are on tiny planes or small boats, only one bag that is 44 pounds, 1 carry-on that is less than 12 pounds, and one personal item is allowed. This makes it challenging to pack, but there are some great tips on what to bring. Missionaries learn to do without a lot of excess in this mission.
Duffles and soft sided lugguge is better to reduce weight.
The weather is wonderful year round. It is a tropical climate, so temperatures are usually from the 70s-to mid 80s. There are a couple of areas that can get a little cooler (like dip into the 60s), but definitely not cold. Because of the baggage restrictions, most recommend not bringing a blanket, but purchasing one there if needed. You will need sheets though.
Missionaries need good walking shoes. They will wear them out. Missionaries may need replacements sent midway through. Sisters wear Tevas or Chacos.
Elders: You only need 1 or 2 long-sleeved shirts, the rest should be short sleeves. You do not need a suit. Missionaries like to trade ties, so get a few cheap ones. Light-weight golf pants are a must.
Sisters: Sisters wear Tevas or Chacos. Bring light-weight dresses (like 5 will do) and you can purchase dresses there in fun prints for cheap. Pack a few t-shirts and some Pday shorts as well.
Feminine hygiene products are hard to come by and don't work well. Many families suggest transitioning to a cup or disc before leaving. The flex disc option takes a little practice and can get messy, but it is awesome! Also bring some washable period underwear.
They do have washing machines, but you hang clothing to dry.
There are some parts that are tourist spots, where you can find most of what you need, but other areas that everything is difficult. A lot of what is available depends are where you are assigned.
You need to filter water. Every apartment has filtered water, but sometimes the running water isn't working and there are sometimes issues. A filtered water bottle is very handy to have!
Buy turkish cotton towels, they are super thin, light-weight and dry quickly.
The islands are cash only. A personal debit card where you can pull cash is what you will need. But don't keep the card on you, though. There are problems with theft.
Sunscreen is important. It is not legal to send permethrin into to country, so do not send it.
Things to send: laundry sheets, shampoo bars, tylenol, ibuprofen, and other medications, a good probiotic, and SEASONINGS!! Seasoning packets are the most requested items from missionaries- TACO seasoning, salt, lemon pepper, Italian seasoning.
They don't often get fed in this mission, so basic cooking skills is nice. They mostly just cook rice, beans and chicken.
Packages do get there, but they are expensive and take awhile. Like 6-8 weeks awhile. And then to the mission home, so it could be a few more weeks before the missionary gets it. Most parents mail things that are consumable so as to not add to suitcase weight- seasonings, snacks, and things like that.
Medical treatment does not take insurance. You pay cash up front.
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Tips on Vaccinations like Yellow Fever and Typhoid: The cheapest options mentioned are Costco, GoodRX (request coupon), Walgreens, and County Health Department. You often have to request these vaccines and may have to pay for a travel consult. One helpful tip is to ask your doctor to send in a prescription for the vaccinations — some have had insurance cover the cost that way. Because of taking Doxycycline daily to prevent Malaria, probiotics have been recommended as very helpful for gut health. The Doxy also makes you more susceptible to the sun, so sunscreen is important.
Serve shirts have a ventilation panel in the side of the shirt making them noticeably more breathable. Missionaries serving in hot or humid places absolutely RAVE about this feature. The most popular shirt for hot-climate missions, for sure.