Thank you for your interest in volunteering for an MDCG trip. We will make every effort to process your application as soon as possible. If you meet the initial qualifications required for a team member, we will contact you via e-mail with links to additional forms required for team membership.
Please fill out the form completely . Copy and paste to an email and send to drdwleung@yahoo.com or print and send to our address. Thank you again for your interest in volunteering
Please fill out the form completely . Copy and paste to an email and send to drdwleung@yahoo.com or print and send to our address. Thank you again for your interest in volunteering
First Name: | |||
Middle Name: | |||
Last Name: | |||
Preferred Name/Nickname: | |||
Organization: | |||
Address: | |||
City: | |||
State/Province: | |||
Zip/Postal Code: | |||
Country: | |||
Work Phone: | |||
Home Phone: | |||
Fax: | |||
Email: | |||
Pager: | |||
Cell: | |||
Alternate Phone: | |||
Alternate Phone Description: | |||
Gender: | Male Female | ||
Birth date: | |||
Birth place: | |||
Marital status: | Married Single | ||
Spouse's name: | |||
Number/ Name(s)/Age(s) of Children (or N/A): | |||
Emergency contact (other than your spouse/home address): | |||
Name: | |||
Phone: | |||
Address: | |||
City: | |||
State/Province: | |||
Zip/Postal Code: | |||
Country: | |||
You can obtain travel/medical evacuation insurance through Travel Guard (www.travelguard.com). | |||
I am professionally trained in the following areas: | |||
Medicine Dentistry Specialty: (specify) ____________________________ Assistant (specify)_____________________________ Emergency medical technology Hygienist Nurse :(specify type) ___________________________ translator: (specify languages) _______________________________ Technologist: (specify) _________________________ Pharmacy Nutritional support Therapy: (specify) ________________________________________ Other: __________________________________________________ | |||
Education (School(s)/Year(s) Attended/Degree(s) Obtained): | |||
Professional License #(s): State(s): Certification(s) | |||
Work Experience: | |||
Travel/Cross-Cultural Experience: | |||
Passport #: | |||
Issue Date: | |||
Expiration Date: | |||
Passport Authority Agency: | |||
Have you gone on other missions trips? If yes, where did you go, what did you do, with whom, what did you learn? | |||
Other travel/cross-cultural experiences, in general: Foreign language abilities: | |||
Regional/country site preferences for future MDCG trips and why: | |||
Goals/Motivation What are your goals for this trip? | |||
Personal Information Please give three adjectives that best describe your personality | |||
Other pertinent personal information you want to share: | |||
Upcoming MDCG Trips Future MDCG trips are done on a semi-annual basis running from 7-21 days long, what would be your travel date preferences and your availability? Please indicate your choices, numbering them in order of your preference (1-most preferred, 2-next preference, 3-third choice): | |||
Month: J F M A M J J A S O N D Season : Spring Summer Fall Winter | |||
Trip Preparation Assistance How do you think you can help MDCG before or during trips? | |||
Team Teaching Give a lecture Do pre-/post-op teaching Disinfection Pack supplies Team support/building Inspirational leader Teach regional demographics Press releases Language translation Public speaking (churches, corporations, foundations, schools, etc.) Office/clerical tasks (mailings, ect.) Packing supplies before a trip Hosting a pre- or post-trip dinner Taking inventory of supplies Transporting supplies/equipment Processing patient charts and/or transcribing medical data Providing financial/accounting expertise and advice. Financially sponsoring a team member on a future trip. Other | |||
Procure supplies through personal contacts--Please specify: | |||
Amenities (candy bars, healthy snacks, caf./decaf. coffee/tea) Medical/dental supplies -click for list Business supplies (charts, paper, labels, marking pens, etc.) Instruments -click for list Luggage ([all wheeled] duffels, hard-shell suitcases, trunks) Medications (analgesics, antibiotics, etc) -click for list Packing materials (bubble wrap, foam, small containers, tape) | |||
Names/addresses/phone numbers of any people or companies you recommend MDCG contact regarding supplies procurement: | |||
Funding Information MDCG is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization, tax ID # , recognized by the IRS. All monetary gifts are tax-deductible and will be receipted to the donors. | |||
If given the appropriate materials (e.g. brochures, etc.) in advance of your trip, would you be able to seek funds from your contacts (family, friends, churches, community organizations, educational institutions, foundations, etc.) to raise your own support for your travel expenses? | |||
yes no | |||
# of brochures/letters needed | |||
Names/addresses/phone numbers of anyone or any foundations you would like MDCG to contact to seek financial support for the organization in general | |||
Do you believe you will need financial assistance to fund your trip? | |||
yes no | |||
How much do you project you might need? ________________________ | |||
Average cost per trip is between $3,000-$3,500 per team member, as determined by MDCG, and proof of air ticket is needed 4 months prior to the trip MDCG is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization, tax ID # , recognized by the IRS. All monetary gifts are tax-deductible . | |||
MDCG Volunteer Resources
Fund-Raising Tips
Excerpts from: Mr. Larry Williams, Project Serve Director, Youth for Christ/USA, Denver, CO
Part 1: Mailing List
A mailing list is your best resource for the support-raising process. It will give you easy and complete access to all potential donors, plus, it will help you keep track of your donations, reports, and thank you notes. Feel free to copy the list enclosed or make up one of your own. If you own a computer, using a data base will help significantly.
Step 1: Review the list below and check those people who apply to you:
Step 1: Review the list below and check those people who apply to you:
advertising agencies apartment manager baker banker beautician bookstore brothers & sisters butcher Chambers of Commerce Christian business groups church directories church members church missions committees church-related news ads civic clubs coach college friends community leaders dentist doctor editor of local newspaper eye doctor family attorney fellow workers florist former college professors former customers former employees | former teachers foundations friends friends of relatives grocery store clerks school friends exercise class insurance agent Clubs local businesses local radio stations mailman military personnel milkman missionary societies neighbors (current & former) office building directory parents parents' work associates pastor printers retired people Rotary Club service station manager Sunday school classes teammates telephone directory veterinarian wedding lists youth group |
As you read each category, use the Mailing List form and jot down names that come to mind. If you cannot remember all the details, write down what you know. Don't try to come up with addresses, and don't eliminate any names that come to mind.
Once you've completed every category, add any other names that come to mind and any other categories you might consider.
Ask your associates to add any names they feel are appropriate and to help you with any names and addresses that are incomplete.
Review your list. Put a check mark next to people you would not feel comfortable asking for support and give yourself a valid reason for this position. Otherwise, these people may surprise you and may be the very people who would be most willing to help you.
Go back over your check marks and see if you can cut out about half of them.
Continue to think of other possibilities, and as other names come to mind, write them down for further consideration.
Once you've completed every category, add any other names that come to mind and any other categories you might consider.
Ask your associates to add any names they feel are appropriate and to help you with any names and addresses that are incomplete.
Review your list. Put a check mark next to people you would not feel comfortable asking for support and give yourself a valid reason for this position. Otherwise, these people may surprise you and may be the very people who would be most willing to help you.
Go back over your check marks and see if you can cut out about half of them.
Continue to think of other possibilities, and as other names come to mind, write them down for further consideration.
Step 2: Addresses
Fill in the addresses using your personal phone book and various directories.
Part 2: The Letter
You may feel embarrassed to ask family, friends, and associates for money. You are asking, not only for yourself, but for a cause to provide for the poor in developing countries.
Your presence overseas will have both humanitarian and spiritual meaning, and thus the money will help those who are very truly needy.It is safe to say that you are inviting others to participate, indirectly, in the mission for which you are requesting money.It is up to you to decide who you contact and what you say.
Take advantage of having a partner in the process and spend some time in prayer about your fund-raising.Certainly, it is a difficult thing to ask others for money.It is very humbling.If and/or when you lose confidence in asking for money, select someone who can encourage you in the goodness you are doing. Tips for Writing the Letter
Your presence overseas will have both humanitarian and spiritual meaning, and thus the money will help those who are very truly needy.It is safe to say that you are inviting others to participate, indirectly, in the mission for which you are requesting money.It is up to you to decide who you contact and what you say.
Take advantage of having a partner in the process and spend some time in prayer about your fund-raising.Certainly, it is a difficult thing to ask others for money.It is very humbling.If and/or when you lose confidence in asking for money, select someone who can encourage you in the goodness you are doing. Tips for Writing the Letter
- Be yourself and let your personality come through.If you feel uncomfortable about writing the letter, admit it to the addressee.Tell them how you feel about your commitment to going, e. g.scared, excited, etc. Use some humor, if you feel led to do so.
- Be concise.Try to limit your letter to one page, but make sure you say all you want.
- Be personal.Try to make the letter sound like it is specifically intended for the individual addressed.Sign each copy by hand and try to include a little handwritten note on each one.
- Suggest an amount. Many people would rather know what amount is appropriate to give than have to come up with a figure. Be sure you stress that your supporter should under no circumstances feel pressured to give more than what is convenient. Let them know that any gift is appreciated.
- Stress dates. Let them know when you need the money.
- Instruct them how to give.Make sure your letter states specifically how to go about giving. Tell them to send the check to:
Have them designate on the check's memo the particular mission to where you are going. The IRS requests that no names are to be put on the memo, though, because they do not recognize individuals as tax-exempt, only the organization, e.g. MDCG, which is 501(c)(3) tax-exempt.The best way to assure that the funds go specifically to you is to have the donor write your name on the enclosed sample form and mail it with their check.
What the Sample Letter Should Look Like
- Salutation. Make sure each letter is personally addressed. Don't be more formal than you would in a personal note.
- First paragraph. Try to make at least the first paragraph of each letter personal and write the rest of the letter as a form.
- Signature. Sign each letter individually with a bright color.(e.g. If the text of the letter is black, sign it in blue).
- Post-script. Take a moment to give each letter a quick, handwritten P.S. This P.S. could be anything from a personal note to a request for prayer, etc.
- Stationery. Try to use something other than plain, white typing paper if you can.
Part 3: Mailing
Although hand-addressing envelopes usually takes longer, they are more personal. Include in each of the envelopes your support letter, an MDCG brochure, a return envelope, and a response card. If you desire, Pray over the letters before you send them.
Part 4: Follow-Up
Nine out of ten people who don't respond to support letters haven't decided not to support you.Rather, they simply haven't gotten around to mailing the check, or have misplaced or forgotten about your letter.
Two months after you've sent your letters, consult your financial report from MDCG to see who has responded. Send a quick note to those who haven't responded asking them if they have any further questions, inviting them to call you if they do.
If you prefer calling rather than writing a note, that's even better.
Two months after you've sent your letters, consult your financial report from MDCG to see who has responded. Send a quick note to those who haven't responded asking them if they have any further questions, inviting them to call you if they do.
If you prefer calling rather than writing a note, that's even better.
Part 5: Thank You
Obviously, it is important to thank those who have helped get you overseas... for their prayers, as well as their money. MDCG will give you complete listings of the names, addresses and amount of the gift for each of the donors.
MDCG Volunteer ResourcesListed below is important information that you should know in order to help you plan for your upcoming MDCG trip. We hope this information will help you have a more enjoyable experience while you travel.
CLOTHING
Dress will be generally casual with comfortable, durable walking shoes and/or sandals for uneven pavement.
Please bring along at least one suit jacket and tie for men and a dressy-casual outfit for women for any banquets with the host staffs.
Shorts and sleeveless shirts are not as appropriate for women. In warmer climates, skirts or slacks with lightweight tops are best.
Pack layers of clothing that may be added or removed as the temperature changes in airplanes and at the surgical sites. (No centralized heating in some buildings e.g. in China.)
Bring rain gear including a small umbrella, a lightweight waterproof jacket, and waterproof shoes.
Cap for sun protection, if applicable.
If desired, bring a small, labeled container of powder laundry detergent for handwashing garments. Or, if preferred, some of the hotels provide laundry service for a nominal cost. Please tip the workers (e.g. $1.00 to $2.00/load).
Bring a small cord to be used as a clothesline.
Note: Be forewarned, not all hotels provide hot water on a regular basis for showers or bathing. A light-weight robe and slippers may help after you bathe.
Please bring along at least one suit jacket and tie for men and a dressy-casual outfit for women for any banquets with the host staffs.
Shorts and sleeveless shirts are not as appropriate for women. In warmer climates, skirts or slacks with lightweight tops are best.
Pack layers of clothing that may be added or removed as the temperature changes in airplanes and at the surgical sites. (No centralized heating in some buildings e.g. in China.)
Bring rain gear including a small umbrella, a lightweight waterproof jacket, and waterproof shoes.
Cap for sun protection, if applicable.
If desired, bring a small, labeled container of powder laundry detergent for handwashing garments. Or, if preferred, some of the hotels provide laundry service for a nominal cost. Please tip the workers (e.g. $1.00 to $2.00/load).
Bring a small cord to be used as a clothesline.
Note: Be forewarned, not all hotels provide hot water on a regular basis for showers or bathing. A light-weight robe and slippers may help after you bathe.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
Please bring two sets of your own surgical scrubs, a lab coat, a name tag, plus items specific to your specialty, e.g. stethoscopes, BP cuffs, scissors, pen lights, intubation supplies, surgical instruments, caps, etc.
JEWELRY/VALUABLES
Such valuables as jewelry, except for wedding bands, are best left at home. Gold chains are best tucked in shirts while when out on the streets. A money belt or pouch is a must. Use fanny/back packs with caution, since they can be cut off.
If you opt to keep your jewelry and other valuables in the hotel safe, know that even this place isn't always secure. Remember to retrieve your items before you depart. Don't pack any valuables in your luggage.
If you opt to keep your jewelry and other valuables in the hotel safe, know that even this place isn't always secure. Remember to retrieve your items before you depart. Don't pack any valuables in your luggage.
LUGGAGE/PACKING
MDCG teams en route to their site destinations are heavily-laden with supplies. We appreciate your cooperation in not over packing your own personal belongings.
Allow time to pack thoughtfully, perhaps filling your luggage only 3/4 full, allowing for souvenirs.
Consider cross-packing with another companion, just in case your luggage doesn't arrive when you do.
Pack with travel size bottles, clear ziploc small and medium bags.
Secure all containers tightly.
MDCG’s best experience with types of luggage both for supplies and team members has been with medium-sized, soft, wheeled, pull luggage with balanced proportions. We use vaulted containers for the equipment and instruments.
Label both the inside and the outside of your luggage, then tie on a bright ribbon or cloth or tape on bright tape for easy identification.
Use luggage locks and bring extra keys.
Remember, international air carriers usually limit each passenger to two pieces of checked baggage and one carry-on. If MDCG is given extra baggage allowance, it is at the mercy of the carrier. Otherwise, it is costly to pay for the extra pieces.
Allow time to pack thoughtfully, perhaps filling your luggage only 3/4 full, allowing for souvenirs.
Consider cross-packing with another companion, just in case your luggage doesn't arrive when you do.
Pack with travel size bottles, clear ziploc small and medium bags.
Secure all containers tightly.
MDCG’s best experience with types of luggage both for supplies and team members has been with medium-sized, soft, wheeled, pull luggage with balanced proportions. We use vaulted containers for the equipment and instruments.
Label both the inside and the outside of your luggage, then tie on a bright ribbon or cloth or tape on bright tape for easy identification.
Use luggage locks and bring extra keys.
Remember, international air carriers usually limit each passenger to two pieces of checked baggage and one carry-on. If MDCG is given extra baggage allowance, it is at the mercy of the carrier. Otherwise, it is costly to pay for the extra pieces.
OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS
Don't pack these items in your luggage. Carry them with you.
They include: your passport, visa, airline tickets, itinerary info., other IDs, medical/life insurance cards, credit card, traveler's checks.
Most of these countries don't yet use phone cards (for public phones).
Have photocopies of some of these documents and keep them separate from the originals.
Have emergency phone numbers of next of kin, your credit card companies, and other pertinent contacts.
They include: your passport, visa, airline tickets, itinerary info., other IDs, medical/life insurance cards, credit card, traveler's checks.
Most of these countries don't yet use phone cards (for public phones).
Have photocopies of some of these documents and keep them separate from the originals.
Have emergency phone numbers of next of kin, your credit card companies, and other pertinent contacts.
ON BOARD THE PLANE
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that can be layered. Take frequent walks while on the plane.
Have a change of clothes plus toiletries packed in your carry on, just in case your luggage is delayed or lost.
Have a change of clothes plus toiletries packed in your carry on, just in case your luggage is delayed or lost.
Health/comfort items include:
- Moisturizing nasal spray and possible surgical mask (limit the risk of acquired respiratory infections in flight)
- Moisturizing eye drops, lip balm, and skin lotion
- Toothbrush, paste, mint
- Other toiletries or cosmetics
- Handi-wipes, liquid soap, Kleenex
- Ear plugs, eye mask, inflatable neck pillow, sleep aid/melatonin
- Mild diuretic, if prone to retain water
- Aspirin (one recommended/24 hours to minimize risk for blood clots)
- Sunglasses, prescription glasses, eye care solutions
- Bottled water, snacks, gum (Gum and spitting not usually socially acceptable by Asians; illegal in Singapore)
- Decrease your alcohol intake while flying because such consumption tends to dehydrate travelers
- Travel alarm clock, watch, small flashlight
- Bring magazines, a book, notebook, journal, sketchpad, deck of cards, cassette/CD player, pens, etc.
MDCG brings its own "emergency bag" for First Aid, stomach ailments, and some more serious conditions, but we still recommend you pack your own items as they relate to your needs, too.
Allow adequate time to get all recommended immunizations prior to departure. Carry an immunization record.
Bring your prescription medications, plus copies of your prescriptions.
Allow adequate time to get all recommended immunizations prior to departure. Carry an immunization record.
Bring your prescription medications, plus copies of your prescriptions.
- Tobramycin eye drops , conjunctivitis
- Ciprofloxacin (take immediately with first symptoms-diarrhea)
- Sulfa meds for those prone to having bladder infections
- Prescription medication if prone to having sinus/respiratory infections or allergies
- Skin care items such as antifungal cream, anti-itch cream, antibiotic ointment, astringent, and sunscreen with SPF of 15+.
- Insect repellant (w/DEET ingredient-- important to repel malaria carrying mosquitoes-they're PM biters).
- Pain medications
- Antacids/Pepto bismol (to coat digestive tract against diarrhea causing organisms)
- Anti-diarrheal, laxative (e.g fiber wafers)
CURRENCY
In most instances, don't bother to exchange money prior to leaving home.
Please bring crisp, good condition U.S. paper currency in the denominations of $1.00 for tips and $20.00, $50.00 or $100.00 for exchange to the host country currency.
You may exchange money at airports, banks, and hotels .
Merchants and hotels in most of the developing countries where teams go honor most major credit cards .
Please bring crisp, good condition U.S. paper currency in the denominations of $1.00 for tips and $20.00, $50.00 or $100.00 for exchange to the host country currency.
You may exchange money at airports, banks, and hotels .
Merchants and hotels in most of the developing countries where teams go honor most major credit cards .
CAMERAS
If desired, bring camera/video camera, extra memory , camera batteries, case.
Note: Communists don't allow photographs or video footage at airports or security checkpoints.
Note: Communists don't allow photographs or video footage at airports or security checkpoints.
CELLULAR PHONES, LAP TOP COMPUTERS
If you have international calling capabilities on your cellular phone, you are welcome to bring your own phone and battery charger.
The charger usually has both 220v and 110v capacities, but be sure it does before you plug your charger into the wall outlet. You likely will need a modular telephone adaptor and/or a Patch Cord Kit; there are currently 35 different phone sockets worldwide. The alligator clips with the Patch Cord Kit hook on to the wires and offer an RJ-11 jack. Simply connect the RJ-11 coupler, test with the Digital Phone Line Tester (included), and plug your phone line in. For a discussion about digital vs. analog phones, please go to the following source.
Source: http://www.magellans.com/
Direct current (DC) electricity, like in your car, is available on the planes in business and First Class sections. To hook your computer up to the little four-pin socket on an aircraft, you need an EmPower Socket Connector. You also need a standard socket adaptor (the type that goes into an automobile cigarette lighter) to fit between the computer and the EmPower unit. Source: Same as for the wall outlets, above.
The city have local SIM cards available if you intend to be making local calls.
The hotels generally provide internet access. You may bring your own lap top computer and hook it in to the hotel's access.
The charger usually has both 220v and 110v capacities, but be sure it does before you plug your charger into the wall outlet. You likely will need a modular telephone adaptor and/or a Patch Cord Kit; there are currently 35 different phone sockets worldwide. The alligator clips with the Patch Cord Kit hook on to the wires and offer an RJ-11 jack. Simply connect the RJ-11 coupler, test with the Digital Phone Line Tester (included), and plug your phone line in. For a discussion about digital vs. analog phones, please go to the following source.
Source: http://www.magellans.com/
Direct current (DC) electricity, like in your car, is available on the planes in business and First Class sections. To hook your computer up to the little four-pin socket on an aircraft, you need an EmPower Socket Connector. You also need a standard socket adaptor (the type that goes into an automobile cigarette lighter) to fit between the computer and the EmPower unit. Source: Same as for the wall outlets, above.
The city have local SIM cards available if you intend to be making local calls.
The hotels generally provide internet access. You may bring your own lap top computer and hook it in to the hotel's access.
ELECTRICITY
Check the Volts
Make sure you check the voltages on any appliances you plan to bring abroad. You may need a voltage transformer as well as an adaptor plug to operate the appliance overseas.
Dual-Voltage Appliances
Whenever possible, purchase dual voltage appliances. That way, all you need is an adaptor plug when traveling abroad.
Electrical Adaptors
If you are a frequent international traveler or even just taking that once in a lifetime tour, purchase a set of the most frequently used electrical adaptor plugs
Source: http://www.magellans.com/
Bring an appropriate adapter/converter for hair dryers, travel irons, and electric shavers. But even then, these appliances still tend to overheat. Use the lowest settings only for short periods of time. It is best to use the hotel's hair dryers, if available, or purchase appliances with what are actually used there.
Make sure you understand very clearly how to hook-up equipment before you use them (used with converters, transformers, surge protectors, etc.)
For further explanation of electrical adaptor plugs, socket shapes, polarized/non-polarized plugs, transformers, convertors, frequency (AC, hertz, voltage), etc. please go to: http://www.magellans.com/
Make sure you check the voltages on any appliances you plan to bring abroad. You may need a voltage transformer as well as an adaptor plug to operate the appliance overseas.
Dual-Voltage Appliances
Whenever possible, purchase dual voltage appliances. That way, all you need is an adaptor plug when traveling abroad.
Electrical Adaptors
If you are a frequent international traveler or even just taking that once in a lifetime tour, purchase a set of the most frequently used electrical adaptor plugs
Source: http://www.magellans.com/
Bring an appropriate adapter/converter for hair dryers, travel irons, and electric shavers. But even then, these appliances still tend to overheat. Use the lowest settings only for short periods of time. It is best to use the hotel's hair dryers, if available, or purchase appliances with what are actually used there.
Make sure you understand very clearly how to hook-up equipment before you use them (used with converters, transformers, surge protectors, etc.)
For further explanation of electrical adaptor plugs, socket shapes, polarized/non-polarized plugs, transformers, convertors, frequency (AC, hertz, voltage), etc. please go to: http://www.magellans.com/
Excerpts from: "Rethinking the Carry-On"
By Michael Martinez
The Denver Post, December 9, 2001
The FAA is limiting the number of items air travelers can carry on the plane. Most travelers, however, are rush packers who pack the night before departure, squeezing in items in overstuffed bags (45-linear inch limit for carry-ons, length + width + height). One travel expert, Doug Dyment, recommends, "Think less, not more." See www.oratory.com/travel.
First, have a packing list. "The biggest mistake is that people don't use a packing list, said Dyment. See his website for a sample list. The best clothes for traveling are wrinkle-resistant, washable, quick-drying & color-coordinated for mixing & matching. Avoid items that have only one use.
When actually packing, Dyment recommends "bundle wrapping", which prevents creases & takes up less space in your carry-ons. Essentially, wrap your clothes around a soft core object.
Another method is suggested by Paulette Hoffman on her website, Packing with Paulette. She suggests placing heavier objects, such as shoes & hair dryers at the bottom of the suitcase, then use a divider (plastic or cardboard wrapped by shelf paper) to separate these objects from clothes. Next, pants & other long garments are folded over stacks of shirts & tops. Carry toiletries in a shoulder bag.
Such a method can accommodate 3 prs. of slacks, 3 skirts, 8 tops, a light sweater, a blazer, & 3 prs. of shoes, all in a 22" carry-on.
Traveling with fewer clothes requires some washing. Dyment advises taking packets of Woolite detergent for socks & underwear on longer trips.
The Denver Post, December 9, 2001
The FAA is limiting the number of items air travelers can carry on the plane. Most travelers, however, are rush packers who pack the night before departure, squeezing in items in overstuffed bags (45-linear inch limit for carry-ons, length + width + height). One travel expert, Doug Dyment, recommends, "Think less, not more." See www.oratory.com/travel.
First, have a packing list. "The biggest mistake is that people don't use a packing list, said Dyment. See his website for a sample list. The best clothes for traveling are wrinkle-resistant, washable, quick-drying & color-coordinated for mixing & matching. Avoid items that have only one use.
When actually packing, Dyment recommends "bundle wrapping", which prevents creases & takes up less space in your carry-ons. Essentially, wrap your clothes around a soft core object.
Another method is suggested by Paulette Hoffman on her website, Packing with Paulette. She suggests placing heavier objects, such as shoes & hair dryers at the bottom of the suitcase, then use a divider (plastic or cardboard wrapped by shelf paper) to separate these objects from clothes. Next, pants & other long garments are folded over stacks of shirts & tops. Carry toiletries in a shoulder bag.
Such a method can accommodate 3 prs. of slacks, 3 skirts, 8 tops, a light sweater, a blazer, & 3 prs. of shoes, all in a 22" carry-on.
Traveling with fewer clothes requires some washing. Dyment advises taking packets of Woolite detergent for socks & underwear on longer trips.
Packing Tips:
- Choose 2 neutral colors for your travel wardrobe.
- Avoid cotton in general, jeans in particular: They're heavy & slow to dry.
- Pants with zip-off legs can cover "no shorts" dress codes.
- Silk long underwear is light, warm & washable, & it can double as pajamas.
- CoolMax & Capilene are also good fabric choices.
- A scarf goes a long way toward dressing up an outfit, & it serves as a head covering where required.
- Socks & underwear are harder to replace overseas than outerwear.
- Consider walking shoes such as Rockport & Mephisto, rather than tennis shoes. You'll fit in better.
- Put your shoes in plastic bags or inside socks to keep them from soiling clothes. Stuff them with socks to save space & to maintain their shape.
- Leave out anything you're not going to wear at least 3 times.
Excerpts from: "Come (& Go) Clean"
By Michelle Meyer
National Geographic Traveler, March 2002, p. 28
Doctors & frequent travelers gave tips on avoiding germs in-flight & on the road year-round:
Carry antibacterial wipes. You may want to apply these moist tissues to especially unsanitary-looking door handles, armrests, table counters, or folding trays.
Wash your hands & then use paper towels to turn off the faucet, flush, & open the door to public bathrooms, says Joan Sullivan Garrett, head of MedAire, Inc. You can also bring Purell, or another soapless, self-drying hand sanitizer, in areas where toilet paper & towels aren't easily accessible, suggests Dr. Maria Mileno, director of travel medicine at Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI. Take a 500-mg. vitamin C pill daily. Start with the day you begin your trip, says Pamela Peeke, MD, MPH. "You need the extra immune boost for all the nasty germs you inhale in-flight." Skip honeycomb masks, a thin mask similar to what surgeons wear. "They don't block out the viral particles that cause respiratory infections, " says Dr. Stephen Ross, Chief of Staff at Santa Monica Hospital-UCLA Medical Center. Instead, use Ocean Mist or another saline nasal spray to moisten nostrils. This decreases the risk of infection on planes, where humidity drops below 10%. Bring your own wrap on the plane. "Studies show blankets provided by the airlines are germy," says Peeke. "They're not changed regularly." You may want to bring your own neck pillow to use in-flight, too. Get a flu vaccine shot. This is sensible, especially during winter travel (or summer travel in the southern hemisphere.)
National Geographic Traveler, March 2002, p. 28
Doctors & frequent travelers gave tips on avoiding germs in-flight & on the road year-round:
Carry antibacterial wipes. You may want to apply these moist tissues to especially unsanitary-looking door handles, armrests, table counters, or folding trays.
Wash your hands & then use paper towels to turn off the faucet, flush, & open the door to public bathrooms, says Joan Sullivan Garrett, head of MedAire, Inc. You can also bring Purell, or another soapless, self-drying hand sanitizer, in areas where toilet paper & towels aren't easily accessible, suggests Dr. Maria Mileno, director of travel medicine at Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI. Take a 500-mg. vitamin C pill daily. Start with the day you begin your trip, says Pamela Peeke, MD, MPH. "You need the extra immune boost for all the nasty germs you inhale in-flight." Skip honeycomb masks, a thin mask similar to what surgeons wear. "They don't block out the viral particles that cause respiratory infections, " says Dr. Stephen Ross, Chief of Staff at Santa Monica Hospital-UCLA Medical Center. Instead, use Ocean Mist or another saline nasal spray to moisten nostrils. This decreases the risk of infection on planes, where humidity drops below 10%. Bring your own wrap on the plane. "Studies show blankets provided by the airlines are germy," says Peeke. "They're not changed regularly." You may want to bring your own neck pillow to use in-flight, too. Get a flu vaccine shot. This is sensible, especially during winter travel (or summer travel in the southern hemisphere.)
