WorldTravelReynolds

CLOTHES

Last weekend we went window shopping for lightweight, UV protectant, quick drying clothes. We will only take 3 suitcases and two backpacks so we need all the clothes we will own in those suitcases. These types of clothes wont wrinkle as easy, at least I hope not, and we should be able to pack them by rolling and fitting more into our suitcases.

Another type of clothing we may investigate is mosquito repellent clothing or having our clothes treated. This will be an extra protection against mosquito bites which in some countries can carry malaria. We will do everything we can to prevent it plus mosquitoes love me for some reason. Why?

This chemical is made with permethrin, an insect repellent that I hope does an amazing job. We will send them our clothes and they will “dip and soak” them in this solution. It is supposed to last up to 70 washings.  You can also buy the spray and spray your clothing. We’ll use this method for socks, shoes and hats. Are we going overboard? I don’t think so….I’d rather be safe than sorry.

PRESCRIPTIONS/LUGGAGE

We will be carrying our prescriptions and over the counter drugs, beauty products such as shaving cream and razors as well as our laptops, iPads and camera. And don’t forget shoes! Our entire wardrobe for the next 5 years! Oh, and it cant exceed 50 lbs. Whats interesting is I found that internationally we can have up to 70 lbs on some flights. As long as we don’t touch the good ole USA we can have more in our luggage. I’m sure we’ll need to purchase items along the way but if something goes in the suitcases after we begin then something must come out. We have learned to pack differently and in smaller packaging. As for over-the-counter drugs, I found this great idea on Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Facebook page. One can make their own labels for this pill box. We’ll use the larger one so we can have some of the daily items available. This will really be helpful on the cruises but probably not large enough for long term.

VACCINES

Vaccines also mean NEEDLES… just makes me shudder thinking about them. In looking at the areas we will be traveling, we need a few vaccines. Thanks to our friends, Tom & Jess for sending us the much needed research. By the way, if I haven’t mentioned it, you can visit their amazing travel blog at WorldWideWaftage.  It has some great stories, adventures and good research. They have been around the globe many times in the last 7 years. Check it out, its a wonderful blog. Anyway, back to needles…. We may need some or all of the following immunizations:

• Yellow Fever
• Typhoid
• Hepatitis A/B
• Cholera – probably wont need this one
• Rabies
• Japanese Encephalitis
• Malaria – not a vaccine but a prescription – a lot of side effects to this so will have to weigh the options. Wont be necessary the first year but will discuss with the Doc along with everything else.

And the below list that you would normally have as a child. I still remember the alcohol smell of the clinic and that big gun with lots of needles. And the scar to prove it!!! Chuck and I both know we had these vaccines however we don’t have any records to prove it. I have something from a doctor stating I needed a booster for DPT in 2026 and that’s all.

• Measles-mumps-rubella
• Diptheria-tetanus-persussis
• Varicella (chickenpox)
• Polio

Next week we’ll go visit a Travel Clinic to show our itinerary and see what we need to do. I know we had a few as children but when you don’t have records, what do you do? Chuck had some while working at a paramedic so he can get those records. Some require a series of injections 6 months apart so we have to get started soon since we are leaving in less than 8 months. Wow, time sure flies!


All for now. May God bless you always!

Lea Ann & Chuck