Episode 10: Packing for More Than Yourself on Trips
Children at the lodge-supported Tujatane School in Zambia enjoy some outside playtime. Image courtesy of Tujatane.
When you’re on the road as often as us, you start trying to pack as light as possible. Who cares if someone sees you in the same thing twice (or seven times)? Among travel writers, it sometimes even seems like the smaller your suitcase, the better a traveler you are.
But what if you could use some of your luggage allotment to do real good for others in the places you visit? If you get a free checked bag with your international airfare, why not bring a full-size suitcase packed to the brim with school materials? Heading out on safari? Bring two outfits, and fill the rest of your duffel with much-needed medical supplies. On this episode, we explore ways that travelers can positively impact destinations they visit simply by packing a few thoughtful items.
Pack for a Purpose works with local organizations like Mexico’s Fundación Sandos to inform travelers of the supplies most needed in their destination. Image courtesy of Pack for a Purpose.
Our first guest is Rebecca Rothney, the founder of Pack for a Purpose. Her philanthropy matches travelers up with destinations and suggests supplies they can bring along for worthy grassroots organizations across the globe. Check out some of their latest work on Instagram.
Our next guest gives us a fuller understanding of how much-needed philanthropic efforts can impact projects like the ones Pack for a Purpose works with. Emma Kennedy is the administration and fundraising manager at Tujatane School in Zambia, which is supported by a beautiful tourist lodge near Victoria Falls called Tongabezi. The school and lodge work together to incorporate a charitable component into guests’ visits and to keep them involved long after they go home. Plus, their Instagram feed is pretty inspirational.