Packing for deployment?

2020-06-30T16:05:42-04:00

Hello. I am currently in the process of deploying in the next few months. What are some things I need to take/pack with me? Is there anything I should know before going? This will be my first deployment.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 30 at 2020 4:14 PM

2020-06-30T16:14:20-04:00

Ok, first off, lets have a quick lesson about OPSEC.

Avoid posting information about a deployment that has a date and location.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 30 at 2020 4:19 PM

2020-06-30T16:19:52-04:00

Your unit should provide you with a packing list. If they haven't...ask for one. Then, ask your seasoned NCOs and Officers that have deployed before what they recommend packing that is outside of the packing list provided by the unit. Just remember, you're the one that has to carry all that stuff.

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made Jun 30 at 2020 4:22 PM

2020-06-30T16:22:34-04:00

Most units will publish a list of required uniform items prior to your deployment. If they don't, ask your NCOIC. After you have those requirement packed, fill in any available space with things you like to have to make life away from home more comfortable.

Response by LTC Eugene Chu made Jun 30 at 2020 4:34 PM

2020-06-30T16:34:09-04:00

See if you can find someone to talk to who is already in theater at your specific FOB. He or she may have suggestions over additional personal items to include with packing list or items to avoid based on other factors (e.g. availability at PX, limited space, etc.)

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 30 at 2020 4:50 PM

2020-06-30T16:50:07-04:00

Find out what people are doing for internet service where you are going and if you can get it there or if you need to set up an international plan before you go.
Good Luck

Response by Sgt Jordan Foster made Jun 30 at 2020 5:30 PM

2020-06-30T17:30:54-04:00

Uh what you take on field ops x10

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 30 at 2020 6:03 PM

2020-06-30T18:03:52-04:00

Towels, Toiletries, Shower shoes, extra phone chargers, plenty of underwear and socks. I could go on and on but hopefully you have someone to send you care packages. If not, don’t be afraid to ask someone for help.

Response by SPC Corey Blue made Jul 1 at 2020 6:05 AM

2020-07-01T06:05:00-04:00

Find your packing list and start there. Your company level leadership will provide it for you. Then ask your leadership if you’re allowed to bring anything else like civilian clothes, etc. Different units have different SOP for that. Some allow it and some don’t.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 1 at 2020 8:50 AM

2020-07-01T08:50:49-04:00

In addition to whatever is on your unit's packing list, ensure you take plenty of patience and a sense of humor...

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 1 at 2020 11:52 AM

2020-07-01T11:52:44-04:00

As already mentioned, there will be a packing list. You can obviously expect to take your TA50 issue, even the cold weather stuff. It does get cold at night in many locations in SWA, for example.

If you are looking for what personal stuff to bring: I recommend a external drive filled with movies and music. Also either a Kindle or some actual books. There may be a limit on how much and what kind of personal items are allowed. Again, this is stuff your sNCO should answer

Response by SPC Brian Mason made Jul 2 at 2020 12:40 PM

2020-07-02T12:40:10-04:00

I'm sure you're all over the place over this.
Your unit will give you a detailed packing list. In fact, you will spend more time there going through CIF and getting everything laid out like someone with OCD x1000 until every one is done right. They'll let you know what personal items you can bring.
I would NOT bring a cell phone or anything with addresses and identifying info. Jewelry? Leave it and take it out. Men still have to shave while deployed. Can't have fake nails and I believe makeup has to be neutral but the enemy doesn't care what you look like.
Even if most of your concerns are addressed most civilians have no idea what Active military life is like.