Tight Pants: Packing for Peace Corps Jamaica

Packing for Peace Corps is a tough job. How can you possibly decide what you will need for two years and fit it all into two bags, weighing under 80 pounds. We PCVs in Jamaica thought we would share our thoughts on what you can and can't live without. Disclaimer: The comments on this page do not express the views of Peace Corps, the US Government, or any other organizations named in these pages.

Monday, June 18, 2007

Tight Pants


So here is a picture that explains why we called this blog "Tight Pants". This picture shows the popular style of guys wearing very tight, often stonewashed or white jeans. They are also break dancing in the picture, and tight pants are part of the dancehall dress for some males.

Some Questions...

1. What type and brand of sleeping pad would you recommend? $100 seems to be a standard price for Therm-a-Rest. That is a lot of money, so is it worth it?

The brand of sleeping pad isn't too important but it is a very useful item to have. We got the store brand ones from REI and they were cheaper than Therm-a-Rest ones but work just as well. The self inflating types are more comfortable than just the foam pads. Also the smaller the pad the easier it will be to carry on buses which means you will be more inclined to use it.

2. What type and brand of a solar shower would you recommend?

We have a 5 gallon one from Wal-Mart and it holds enough water for both of us to shower and has lasted 2 years with moderate use. For a single volunteer you might want a smaller one because it will be easier to fill and hang. I don't really think brand matters too much as long as it looks sturdy.

3. How formal is "business casual"? Is a nice skirt and top okay, or should it be business suits?

Lots of Jamaican women wear suits to work so you wouldn't look out of place wearing one, but most volunteers don't and wear a blouse (button-down shirt) and skirt or slacks. It is pretty easy to have a suit made in Jamaica once you are here if that is what your agency requires.

4. What kind of work shoes do you recommend that will look nice enough but be comfortable? Must they really be closed toe?

The shoes don't have to be closed toe, but they shouldn't be flip flops or Teva/Chaco type sandals. I have found a few pairs from Naturalizer that have worked well.

- Kaelyn