Costa Rica & Nicaragua - Raleigh International

Costa Rica & Nicaragua
Volunteer Manager
Expedition Kit Guide
Contents
1. Introduction (read this first!)
2. ‘Summary of Kit’ lists
3. Detailed kit information
4. First Aid kit Information
5. Packing Tips and other bits…

Costa Rica/Nicaragua Clothing and
Equipment List
1. Introduction (Read this first!)
This list is designed to help you select and prepare your personal equipment for
your Raleigh expedition. All specialist equipment (e.g. stoves, fuel, lifejackets,
mountaineering equipment, ropes etc) and project equipment will be supplied by
Raleigh International.
Firstly, do not panic. We are not asking you to go out and spend lots of money on
brand new items of expensive kit. Look at what you already have. There are some
essential items of equipment, where it is worth getting high quality items that are
designed to cope with the rigours of expedition life. You can make huge savings on
other items by choosing cheap brands or buying second-hand.
When you go into shops, remember that you are the customer, take your time, ask
plenty of questions and try on as many different varieties of the item as you can. Try
to recreate realistic conditions i.e. try on a rucksack with some weight in it, boots with
walking socks and walk around and up and down steps.
If you are starting from scratch and have never bought outdoor equipment before,
please remember that there is no exact set of perfect kit for everyone and many
decisions come down to personal choice and budget.
If you already have some of the kit and are familiar with the items, please feel free to
adapt the list according to what you already know works for you.
Life on a Raleigh International expedition can be unpredictable and changeable, the
climate can be very varied, amenities can be basic and you never know quite what is
around the corner, but of course that it part of its appeal! So don’t forget that part of
expedition life is about improvising, adapting and being resourceful with what you
have.

How to use this Kit Guide
On the following pages you will find a lot of information about various items of kit and
clothing that you may need on expedition. We appreciate different people have
different experiences of expedition style kit, if any at all, so we have tried to include
as much information as we think useful but in a way that will be useful for everyone.
Read the headings below to help work through it:
1. Read the ‘Summary of Kit’
2. Think about what kit you already have on the list
3. Read the ‘Kit Information’ section to find out more about those
items you are unfamiliar with, do not currently have or if you what
to check your existing kit’s suitability
4. Use the tick sheet on the ‘Summary of Kit’ to keep track of where
you are
5. Make sure you read the section on First Aid kits
6. Finally, take a look at the ‘Packing Tips and Other Bits’ section as
it may help you to make final decisions and to be best prepared
before you go
Top Tips to get you started!
• If you are in the UK, attend your pre-expedition training events where you will receive
lots more advice and information.
• Obtain copies of outdoor equipment catalogues, which show and compare a wide variety
of choices for each item on the list or look at the websites of major outdoor equipment
stores.
• Try items for size and fit in your local outlet and then buy the cheapest/best offer you can
get (bear in mind the climate in which you will be living and working!)
• Check for any discount that may be offered. Retail outlets will sometimes give a 10-15%
discount for Raleigh International venturers.
• Ask friends and family for advice if this is all new to you!
• Remember…You will have limited opportunities to purchase additional items on
expedition before travelling to your project sites and during changeover – try and bring
everything you need with you.

2. ‘Summary of Kit’ Lists
The Clothing and Equipment lists
On the next pages you will find a summary of kit and clothing for your raleigh
expedition.
The clothing and equipment list has been divided into these sections:
Essential:
Recommended:
You MUST take this item on expedition with you.
This will make your life more comfortable or prove useful at
times.
IMPORTANT:
We understand that you may be going out onto the expedition in a job role that
you may think does not need all the equipment on this list. However due to the
unpredictability and nature of expedition life it is entirely possible that you may be
asked to either transfer projects with little notice or maybe spend time out of field
base and on a project due to all sorts of reason. Therefore it is important for you
to bring the entire kit list overleaf.
If in doubt, please talk to the staff at your Development Weekend to clarify exactly
what to bring.

Volunteer manager Kit List - Costa Rica/Nicaragua
Equipment
Essential Bought it? Packed it?
Rucksack (65-80 litre) (see detailed notes)
Rucksack Liner
Day sack
Walking Boots
Sleeping Bag (3 season)
Sleeping Bag Liner
Sleeping Mat
Mosquito Net
Water Bottles (2X1lt)
Torch
Mess tins
Mug
Cutlery
Poncho
Sunglasses
Watch
First Aid Kit
Wash Kit
Copies of documents
Recommended
Camera
Karabiner
String/cord
Map Case
Gaffer Tape
Trekking Poles
Sewing Kit
Padlocks
Penknife
Bungee Cords
Bought it?
Packed it?

Volunteer manager Kit List - Costa Rica/Nicaragua
Clothing
Essential Bought it? Packed it?
Shirts (2 long sleeved)
T-shirts (2)
Fleece
Trousers/Pants (2)
Shorts (2)
Socks (2 walking, 2 normal)
Waterproof jacket
Underwear (4-5 pairs)
Swimming Costume
Gloves (Outdoor Working)
Hat (Wide brimmed Sun hat)
Sandals
Recommended
Sweatshirt
Trainers/Sneakers
Sarong
Bandanna
Bought it?
Packed it?

3. Detailed Kit Information
Read Sections 1 & 2 before reading this information
Equipment
Remember to check your expedition Kit Summary in section 2 for details of essential and
recommended equipment.
Rucksack
This is one of your most important pieces of equipment. It should be strong enough
to survive the strain of expedition life so please ensure that it is designed for this.
• If you already have a suitable rucksack that fits you well, is the right size and
strong enough to last for three months, then do not buy a new one.
• The capacity of the rucksack should be 65-75 litres for women and 70-80 litres for
men. Your rucksack will be used to carry not only your own personal kit on
project site but potentially team food and equipment.
• If you are buying new, it is worth getting a rucksack from a reputable
manufacturer. Ensure that the rucksack fits your back length well and that it has
an internal frame and padded hip belt.
• Look carefully at the back system. If it is adjustable, avoid buying one that looks
complicated or dependent on breakable parts.
• Removable side pockets are extremely useful and you may want to consider
where you will strap on other items such as roll mats.
• Ask qualified staff in the outdoor shop who will be able to advise you on the
correct fit and size for your frame.
Rucksacks are vulnerable to damage when being handled by airlines and it is a
good idea to have a holdall or duffel bag big enough to put your packed
rucksack in for the flight out to expedition. You can also use it as a
“changeover bag” to keep spare kit in at field base when you are on a project
site or trekking.

Sleeping Bag
You will need a 3-season sleeping bag for Costa Rica & Nicaragua. Much of the time
it will be hot at night so you may end up using your sleeping bag as an additional
mattress! However, it does get cold at night in some projects and the adventure
phase in the mountains due to the altitude so make sure your bag is warm enough. If
you are someone who feels the cold then a 3-season bag may be necessary; if not
then a 2-season bag may be all you need.
In wet and humid conditions a down sleeping bag will quickly deteriorate and is
difficult to dry out.
• A compression stuff sack is useful for reducing the packed size of your bag
(these cost about £7).
Walking Boots If you already have a good pair of walking boots, bring them.
• If you are buying new, get a fabric boot if possible as these tend to dry quicker
(you are likely to be walking through streams where water will come in over the
top of your boots). Leather is OK if that’s what you already have, but not highly
recommended. It can be very wet and leather boots can be hard to dry out.
Remember to wear them in before arriving in Costa Rica & Nicaragua –
wearing them on the flight does not constitute breaking them in.
• Remember to bring any boot care items (such as Nikwax) as recommended by
your boot maker.
• You will be living in your boots almost continuously (trekking, building etc) so
make sure they are both a good fit and durable enough to last the expedition. It is
difficult to buy boots suitable for a Raleigh International Expedition in Costa Rica
& Nicaragua – when you buy yours, look for signs of likely wear and tear such as
strength of stitching, the durability of the sole and the strength of its attachment to
the fabric/leather.
• Look for boots that fit your foot shape, with a fairly stiff sole and good ankle
support.
• The very lightweight “light traveller” type of boot does not provide enough support
for trekking over rough terrain.
• Timberland / Caterpillar type work boots are also unsuitable for trekking.
• US Army jungle boots are adequate if you have them but are very difficult to wear
in.
• If possible, bring a small repair kit that should include needles, strong thread,
some glue and a roll of strong gaffer or duct tape. Spare bootlaces are
essential.
Sleeping Bag Liner
This is to help keep your sleeping bag clean and may be all you need to sleep in on
some project sites. It is much easier to wash than a sleeping bag. Try and get a liner
as lightweight as possible, cotton is fine, silk is lighter and warmer, but more
expensive.
A cheap and easy idea is to fold a cotton sheet in half along its length and
stitch the long sides together (or bring an old duvet cover).

Sleeping Mat
You will use this virtually every day during the expedition. Full-length mats are better.
In Costa Rica & Nicaragua, you will often be sleeping in hammocks. A mat is still
essential as it provides extra insulation to keep you warm.
• A closed-cell foam mat such as a Karrimat is ideal.
• A lightweight self-inflating mattress such as a Thermarest which comes in a
variety of sizes. They are more comfortable but also more expensive. (Make
sure you bring a Thermarest repair kit as they are easily punctured).
Mosquito Net
There is a definite risk of malaria and dengue fever in Costa Rica & Nicaragua so a
mosquito net is essential.
• You will need a box-shaped net so that it can be attached by all 4 corners and fit
under flysheets for jungle hammocks or camp beds.
• The net must have been dipped in Permethrin that prevents mosquitoes biting
through the net. Most nets on the market have been pre-dipped but check before
you buy.
• Tie long pieces of string/cord onto each corner before you go so you don’t have
to mess around with it on your first night in the jungle.
Liners
It is important that you keep your kit dry and waterproof while inside your rucksack.
There are two types of suitable rucksack liners to choose from:
Canoebags/Drybags
• These are extremely sturdy waterproof bags where the top folds over and clips
together to provide a very effective waterproof seal.
• They come in a variety of sizes and allow you to keep your sleeping bag in one
and spare clothes in the other. Whilst some of your clothing may get wet it is
important that your sleeping bag/liner and a spare change of clothes is kept dry at
all times.
• Small drybags are very useful for keeping cameras, letters, notebooks and
valuables in.
Rucksack Liners
• These are tough waterproof liners but they do not have the rollover fastening or
welded seams of the dry bags.
• Whatever you use should be 100% waterproof and durable.
Fertiliser bags are a good cheap option but plastic bin liners are not tough or
waterproof enough.

Stuff sacks
• These are great for organising your stuff, so you’re not rooting around endlessly
in your rucksack for 10 weeks. Useful for the trekking phase when you will have
to pack up quickly each morning. Get different colours to make it easier to
organise your clothes etc.
Day Sack
A small rucksack of about 30-litre capacity is useful for carrying personal kit on day
outings from your project site and also makes a good piece of hand baggage on
flights. There is no need to buy an expensive model from one of the good rucksack
manufacturers, a cheaper model will do.
Water Bottles
The absolute minimum you need to bring is TWO 1-litre water bottles. Try to bring a
combination of collapsible and rigid containers with a capacity in whole litres rather
than halves because water-purifying tablets purify in 1-litre volumes.
• Cycling-style water bottles are ideal as they have a wide neck and are
inexpensive. Other popular models are Sigg and Nalgene..
• Ortlieb or Platypus collapsible water bags are useful because they take up less
volume when empty. You can also get a tube adapter so that you can drink
without having to remove the bottle from your pack, which is very beneficial when
trekking.
You must have enough one-litre puritabs to last your entire trekking phase (approximately 180 litres, or
180 tablets). If you are planning to travel on after expedition you should bring more. It is vital that you
have enough before you leave for expedition - please do not assume you will be able to buy puritabs in
Costa Rica & Nicaragua. For adventure and community phases it is useful to have some puritabs but
generally the water is purified centrally.
Torch/Flashlight
This is a vital piece of equipment as there is rarely any electricity at project sites.
• A head torch is very highly recommended as it allows you to operate ‘hands
free’.
• Petzl are the best-known manufacturer, but there are others, just make sure you
get a good quality one.
• A head torch which runs on AA (LR6) batteries is most useful, as these ‘walkman’
batteries are easiest to get hold of. If you have a head torch which takes 4.5V
flatpack batteries, make sure you take an AA adaptor as 4.5V batteries can be
hard to get hold of in Costa Rica & Nicaragua.
• Head torches with LED bulbs are a good idea, as they use up batteries less
quickly than other types such as halogen bulbs.
• Bring plenty of batteries and a cheap spare torch.
• Maglites are a cheaper alternative with a head strap.

Penknife
Make sure this has a tin opener, scissors and one good blade (should be less than
3 inches). Penknives get lost very easily so it might be worth attaching it to a piece
of cord so you can wear it around your neck. There is no need to go to the expense
of getting a Leatherman-type tool.
Mess Tins
Mess tins are metal containers, usually square, that fit into each other. You will need
a set of two for cooking and for use as bowls/plates. Mess tins bought from Army
Surplus stores are usually stronger than ones sold in outdoor shops.
Mug
Plastic, enamel or tin are all fine.
Cutlery
A spoon is the most essential item. Bring spares, as you are very likely to loose
them. A set with holes in the handles can be attached to your mess tin with a piece of
cord for safekeeping.
Sunglasses
These are a very important piece of equipment. Check that they provide an effective
filter against UV radiation, bring a hard case to keep them in and a neck leash such
as a croakie to stop them from falling off or being lost.
Watch
This needs to be water resistant, ideally with an alarm facility. Do not bring an
expensive one (a basic Casio watch which can be bought for about £12 is ideal).
Bungee Cords
These can be used for strapping extra items onto your rucksack or for making
shelters. About 6 bungees from 50-100cm long in bright colours (i.e. not jungle
green) should be fine. Do NOT bring thick bungees (e.g. the ones you might use on
the back of your bike) because these are usually too strong and can rip or tear
materials they are attached to. Better to bring thin green than thick bright!
String/Cord
This has a multitude of uses such as washing lines, hanging mosquito nets, etc. Guy
rope is stronger and not as expensive as “paracord” (strong string). The
best/cheapest place to get some is somewhere like Woolworths or any garden
centre/hardware store. Bring at least 50 metres if possible.
Photocopies of all your essential documents
You should always have a spare record of your essential travel documents. These
will make your life a lot easier if they get lost or stolen. These should be kept
waterproof in a bag.
1. Passport (copy the page with your passport number, the date and place of issue
plus pages that contain any relevant visas).
2. Vaccinations (a copy of all of the dates of your vaccinations).
3. A record of the serial numbers of your travellers cheques.

4. An emergency telephone number to call to replace stolen/lost traveller’s
cheques/credit cards.
5. Insurance documents (other than Raleigh), including your policy number and 24
hr emergency tel. no.
Camera
An inexpensive 35mm compact camera is ideal for taking photos of expedition life.
• Take enough spare camera batteries with you, as these are expensive and
difficult to buy on expedition. Standard film is available in Costa Rica & Nicaragua
although APS may be difficult to find.
• Make sure you have a protective case – something waterproof such as a small
tupperware box works well. If your camera is not kept fully waterproof, it will be
ruined as the humidity can play havoc with the electrics in cameras. Packets of
silica gel are useful to absorb moisture.
• Film rated 100 ASA should be suitable for most shots, but a 400 ASA would be
useful for under the forest canopy and/or poor weather conditions (or a good
flash).
• For the more serious photographers, if you wish to bring a larger, more expensive
model, that’s fine but please remember that personal belongings are not covered
under Raleigh insurance. Remember lens-cleaning fluid/cloths.
• If you bring a digital camera, make sure you bring enough memory cards and
batteries to last the whole expedition, you are unlikely to be able to charge it if it
is rechargeable.
Kodak, Fuji and Boots produce inexpensive waterproof disposable cameras for
about £10, which take quite good photos and are relatively indestructible.
Karabiner
Karabiners are metal safety clips often used for rock climbing. One or two snap link
karabiners are useful for a variety of uses such as clipping a water bottle or camera
case to a rucksack, or for securing luggage to vehicle roof racks. There is no need to
buy expensive climbing karabiners.
Map Case
An A3 waterproof map case is useful to keep journals and other important documents
protected.
Gaffer Tape
Gaffer (or duct) tape is really useful for repairs and making shelters. A big roll from a
hardware store is cheaper than a little roll from an outdoor store.
Poncho
Ponchos are good for sheltering from the heavy rain or to make simple shelters.
Ponchos vary in weight and durability depending on the model; they are available
from the army surplus stores. Some ponchos are second hand, so check their
condition. Remember, you will have to carry this and we will be providing you with a
personal tarpaulin.
If you are trekking then a Poncho is essential!

Trekking Poles
These are not essential and are really a matter of personal preference. Poles are
ideal for trekking to reduce pressure on knees and joints and prevent injuries,
especially going downhill. Also can be useful for building shelters.
Sewing Kit
Your kit will be stretched to its limit so a sewing kit is very useful for repairs.
Small Padlocks
Useful to padlock rucksack zips whilst in transit or storage during the expedition.
Other Optional Items
• Playing cards
• Journal
• Games
• Books
• sketch pad
• phrase book
• personal stereo
• laminated photos of home to show to communities
• postcards
• herbs and spices in camera film cases

Clothing
Remember to check your expedition Kit Summary in section 2 for details of essential
and recommended equipment.
Remember, everything you wear on a daily basis will be dirty and trashed by the end
of expedition.
• Do not bring any clothes with any form of camouflage pattern.
• White or light coloured clothing will get dirty.
• Plenty of re-sealable plastic bags or stuff sacks with drawstrings are good for
separating kit and keeping it dry.
• You may want to bring one set of slightly nicer clothes to wear at changeover and
for travelling home.
• Avoid skimpy clothing like vest/tank tops and short shorts. There are no definite
rules as to what is appropriate, and you will rarely be told if you have offended
anyone. Consider where you are (rural areas are more conservative), what the
community is wearing, how you want to be viewed and what impression you want
to create of your (i.e. the foreign) community.
• Keep clothing to the minimum.
Stock up on old shirts from charity shops so you can throw them away at the
end of expedition.
Shirts
Two durable, lightweight, long-sleeved shirts. These are essential for protection
against mosquitoes especially at dusk.
T-Shirts
At least three T-shirts. You will be receiving a free Raleigh International T-shirt,
sleeping in it will keep it concrete-free! Vest tops are a nice option to have but may
be inappropriate in some community situations.
Fleece
If you are doing the adventure phase then a lightweight fleece jacket/jumper is
particularly useful if you feel the cold, especially when you are trekking at high
altitudes.
Shorts
Take two pairs of cotton shorts (not running shorts) that are made from fairly heavyduty
cotton. They can be lightweight (fast drying will be useful) but should be
respectable, not too short or tight.

Trousers/Pants
At least two pairs. One reasonably smart pair (i.e. clean and not ripped) for wearing
in town, another that you don’t mind getting completely trashed on project sites.
• They should be light/medium weight cotton or polycotton, quick drying, loose
fitting and durable e.g. combat-style trousers.
• Zip off trousers are popular for their versatility
• Specialist trousers (e.g. Rohan) are quite expensive although they are durable
and do dry very quickly.
• Please do not bring denim jeans to wear on your project site. They are too hot
and take too long to dry. However it if you like to wear jeans then they are good
to have for travelling on or for changeover times.
Socks
You need to take at least four pairs of socks: two pairs of thick walking socks and two
pairs of normal cotton socks.
Waterproof Jacket
A light waterproof jacket is all that is required. Think very carefully about bringing an
expensive jacket as it may get damaged on a project site.
Underwear
Cotton underwear is more hygienic than synthetic. About four/five pairs should be
enough to last the expedition. Dark colours are recommended, as they don’t show
the dirt. Sports bras are very useful.
Swimming Costume
For men, please take a pair of respectable swimming shorts. For women, please
bring a one-piece swimming costume. Women may wish to bring a bikini as well, as
there may be times when it is acceptable to wear one.
Sarong
This has a multitude of uses and can be bought from a variety of stores for about £8.
(Alternatively, just use a length of material.) A sarong can be used as a towel,
blanket, clothing and is quick drying and lightweight. This applies to men, too!
Gloves
Hard-wearing, also suitable for working with tools on project sites.
Hat
Preferably wide brimmed to keep the sun (and the rain) off.

Sandals
A pair of open sandals with toe and ankle straps, often called ‘rafting sandals’ are
essential. Teva, Merrell and Reef sandals have all had good reports. Flip-flops are
not recommended. It is important, for safety reasons that you always have something
on your feet – unless you are in bed!
Trainers/Sneakers
One pair to wear round camp and if you have a problem with your boots.
Sweatshirt
Heavier and slower to dry than a fleece, but can still be handy.
Bandana
This also has a multitude of uses; for shading the neck from the sun, as a flannel, as
a seat cover in vehicles with plastic seats, emergency triangular bandage.
Waterproof Over-Trousers
Only really recommended for the adventure phase. A great piece of kit that will keep
you dry and happy when it is pouring down.

Toiletries and Wash Stuff
You may want to bring enough toiletries to last for the whole expedition, but you can
restock at the fieldbase shop. The following is a list of a few essential things but don’t
forget all the usual - toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo etc.
• Suncream, aftersun and lip block – make sure you take strong sun protection
factor. One tube of strength SPF 45 and two tubes of SPF 30 is ideal. Please buy
water-resistant suncream and don’t forget lip block or aftersun lotion.
• Insect repellent – buy insect repellent with a high percentage of DEET (50% or
over) e.g. Jungle Formula or Lifesystems. Make sure you get enough for the
whole expedition – 3 50ml bottles should be enough. Try out the repellent before
you go to check for skin reactions.
• Wetwipes – brilliant for washing when water isn’t in abundance or when you’re
on long, hot journeys. Try to buy fragrance free wipes.
Glasses/Contact Lenses
If you need them, bring your spectacles, as well as a spare pair. Bring hard cases to
keep them in. Wearing contact lenses is not recommended due to the increased risk
of infection associated with using contact lenses in a dirtier environment. This applies
to all types of disposable and non-disposable lenses
Chlorine Based Water Purification Tablets
If your are attending a community or enviromental phase then please bring some
water purification tablets with you as you may need these at times. Chlorine based
are best and you should try and bring enough to purify 100 litres of water.
Top Tips
• Try to bring as many environmentally friendly, plant based or biodegradable
toiletries as possible in order to reduce the impact you have on the local
environment.
• A small nailbrush is good for washing dirty clothes.
• If you only need small quantities of something then small plastic bottles from
pharmacies like Boots, Superdrug or other shops (e.g. Muji) are really useful.
• Instead of a towel, you might prefer a sarong, which can be used for lots of
other things. It’s a good idea to have a loop on the corner so it can be hung in
the sun to dry.
• Try to bring tampons with applicators, they are generally more hygienic.
Should be kept in a ziplock bag or waterproof container. Please try not to take
tampons with plastic applicators.
• Try to buy creams, lotions, deodorants etc that don’t have a strong fragrance
because this attracts mosquitoes.

4. First Aid Kits
Raleigh International recommends that you buy a ready made first aid kit. There are
a number of places that sell them including:
• Local hospitals or medical centres
• Pharmacies/drugstores, supermarkets, travel stores etc.
If you are living in or visiting the UK you could try:
• Nomad Travel Store & Travel Clinics
Website: www.nomadtravel.co.uk E-mail: sales@nomadtravel.co.uk or Tel: 020
8889 7014.
Nomad specialises in travel medicine and equipping expeditions. The Raleigh
Venturer Medical Kit has all the items listed below (except Puritabs) and can be
delivered to any address in the UK. The kit can be tailored to your specific
requirements and extra items can be added. Nomad run a mail order service and
catalogue request line on 020 8889 7014.
• Trailfinders 194 Kensington High St, London W8. Tel: 020 7938 3999
• Interhealth 157 Waterloo Road, London SE1. Tel: 020 7902 9000
• Travelclinic at Hospital for Tropical Diseases Tel: 020 7388 9600
If you are not buying a ready-made kit then you must have the following essential
items in your first aid kit. All items should be kept in a waterproof container such as a
small sandwich box.
Each project site will have a supply of sterile needles and syringes. If you are
planning to travel on after the expedition then we recommend that you buy a sterile
kit. These can be bought from the suppliers above at a cost of approximately £10.
What do I need in a First Aid Kit?
Oral re-hydration sachets e.g. Dioralyte
Antihistamine cream
Gauze
Painkillers e.g. Paracetamol or Nurofen
Plasters
Tweezers
Antiseptic cream e.g. Savlon
Zinc oxide tape
Athletes foot powder e.g. Mycil
Vaseline
Small non sticky dressings e.g. Melonin
Safety pins 5
Small pair of scissors 1
Crepe bandage 1
Digital Thermometer (not mercury) 1
Recommended Quantity
10 minimum
1 Tube
1 Packet (5 Pieces)
1 Packet
1 Packet
1 Pair
1 Tube
3 Rolls
1-2 Pot(s)
1 Pot
Puritabs (for 1 litre water bottles) 180-200
Small bottle of Iodine – essential for cuts
Multivitamins
4 Single Dressings
1 Small Bottle (50ml)
1 Pot

5. Packing Tips and Other Bits..
Where to buy your kit
• You can but kit through Nomad Travel at www.nomadtravel.co.uk at 10% off,
with a further 5% going to Raleigh’s charitable activities direct from Nomad.
First Aid kits bought through Nomad are designed and made specifically for
Raleigh expeditions.
• Most high street outdoor kit retailers will give you 10-15% off if you can show
them that you are part of a Raleigh Expedition
• Check with family and friends,, you never know what kit people have hidden
away in the loft or under the bed they aren’t using any more!
Packing and Practicalities
• You should always know where everything is in your luggage. Ensure that items
you may need quickly e.g. passports and medical packs are easily accessible.
• Carry all your valuables and 24 hours worth of kit (such as toiletries, daily
medication, underwear etc) in your hand luggage in case your main luggage is
delayed.
• All battery operated/electrical goods (including spare batteries), alarm clocks,
torches, and aerosols (including contact lens aerosols) must be packed in your
hand luggage.
• Pack any sharp objects e.g. penknife, scissors and knives in your main baggage,
otherwise airport security might confiscate them.
• Make sure you can quickly identify your rucksack as yours, by clearly labelling it
or tying something bright onto one of the straps. A robust luggage tag is ideal.

Valuables
Remember that your personal belongings are NOT covered by Raleigh insurance,
even if stored on Raleigh premises. We highly recommend that you take out your
own personal belongings insurance (you can do this direct with Raleigh’s Insurance
company).
• Space in the field-base safe is limited. Cash, travellers’ cheques and
important/valuable documentation only can be stored there. There is no room for
bulky objects such as camera lenses, mobile phones etc.
Mobile Phones
Mobile phones and GPS receivers are discouraged as they are unnecessary on
expedition and safe storage for these cannot be provided at field-base.
Mobile phones do not work in Costa Rica/Nicaragua as there is no roaming, so
unless you are travelling on afterwards to a different country then do not bring one.
Money
• Raleigh International will be providing your food, transport and expedition
expenses. You will need to bring some spending money for souvenirs, postcards,
stamps, toiletries etc.
• We recommend that you bring $450 to $600; this should be a combination of
travellers’ cheques and cash. Do Not bring British pounds.
• Travellers’ cheques can be changed into cash during the changeover period.
Where to buy your kit
Don’t forget to try and borrow kit from friends and family, but there is bound to be
some kit you need to buy.
Places to buy kit:
o Nomad Travel Stores - www.nomadtravel.co.uk
You will automatically get 10% discount as a Raleigh participant, plus nomad
will give Raleigh an extra 5% back to its charitable work
o Ask in your local high street store for discount, mentioning Raleigh as many
will give you between 10-15% off if you do
o Other useful web sites are:
www.oswaldbailey.co.uk/
www.yeomansoutdoors.co.uk
www.regatta.com/