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    Unpopular opinion: red eye flights are better. ๐Ÿ›ฉ

Hereโ€™s why:

1. They are often cheaper than daytime flights.
2. You get an entire extra day in your destination.

Even if the red eye and daytime flights are the same price, you get better bang for your buck because you get to spend more time in your destination.

For example, we got an entire extra day in Bora Bora for free by flying on the red eye. ๐ŸŒŠ๐Ÿ’ธ

Agree or disagree?

#travelreel #travelreels #travelreelsoninstagram #travelbloggervibes #redeyeflight #cheapflights
    Dreaming up a trip to Positano, Italy? ๐Ÿ‹๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น

Save and screenshot this ultimate itinerary for 5 days in Positano on the Amalfi Coast of Italy!

Day 1: Explore Positanoโ€™s streets, shops and restaurants.
Day 2: Day trip to Amalfi Town (or Ravello).
Day 3: Day trip to Capri.
Day 4: Beach day at Spiaggia Grande.
Day 5: Fornillo Beach or a private beach club like @arienzobeachclubpositano 

For more itinerary details (how to get to Positano, activity details and more), head to:

indigosahara.com/positano-itinerary-5-days 

Buon viaggio! ๐Ÿค๐Ÿ‹๐ŸŒž๐ŸŒŠ

#positanoitaly #positanobeach #amalficoastitaly #italytrip #travelitinerary #travelguides #positano๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น
    Heading to Italy โ€” soon or someday? ๐Ÿ‹๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น Heading to Italy โ€” soon or someday? ๐Ÿ‹๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น

Save and screenshot this one week Italy itinerary for Rome and the Amalfi Coast!

Day 1: Rome
Day 2: Rome
Day 3: Positano
Day 4: Amalfi Town
Day 5: Capri
Day 6: Positano
Day 7: Rome

Buon viaggio! ๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿค๐Ÿ๐Ÿ‹

#italyitinerary #italytravel #italytrip #romecity #positanoitaly #amalficoastitaly
    How many have you been to out of 30? โœจ All of t How many have you been to out of 30? โœจ

All of these bucket list destinations are the perfect places to visit in Europe for an iconic European summer experience.

Iโ€™m personally very excited to check a few more off the list this summer. ๐Ÿคญ

Remember to SAVE this summer bucket list for easy access later! 

#europedestinations #europetrip #europeansummer #summertravel #travel
    12 flights for $175 USD total. ๐Ÿ’ธ Hereโ€™s how๐Ÿ‘‡๐Ÿผ

Travel hacking!

AKA taking advantage of credit card points and credit card opening bonuses. ๐Ÿ’ธ๐Ÿ’ธ

This is just from putting all of our regular expenses on travel credit cards over the past six-ish months (groceries, house renovation expenses, clothes, etc.), paying the card off in full every month and racking up free miles.

So, what travel credit card is best, you ask?

I wish there was a simple answer, but the truth is, it depends on your personal goals as a traveler.

Thatโ€™s why Iโ€™ve created a FREE downloadable quiz (link in bio) that you can take to determine which travel credit card you should open.

This travel hacking quiz is going to tell you exactly which travel credit card is best for you, no matter if youโ€™re new to travel credit card points or a seasoned travel hacking pro.

If you take the quiz, let me know what you get!! ๐Ÿ’ฌ

(Disclaimer: I am not a financial advisor, and this is not financial advice. Always consult a professional who knows your unique financial situation. Always follow credit card best practices, such as paying your card off in full on time every month.)

#travelhacking #travelcreditcards #freeflights #freetravel #budgettravel #budgettraveltips #europeansummer
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A travel blog: teaching cultural competence through inspirational travel

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The Ultimate Church Retreat Packing List

March 27, 2023

Going on a church retreat? Whether it’s your very first retreat or you’re a yearly attendee, this church retreat packing list will ensure that you don’t forget any important church retreat essentials for your trip.

The Ultimate Church Retreat Packing List

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If a product is purchased using one of the following links, I may earn a small commission from the brand at no cost to you.

First, it’s important to note that your retreat’s location plays a large role in what you will need to bring. As you could imagine, if your retreat is taking place on a campground, your packing list will look a little different than if your retreat is taking place at a hotel or resort conference center. Season will also play a role.

We’ll go over all of the must-haves for both location types in this church retreat packing list, but it may be worth researching your unique retreat location before packing to make sure you bring everything you need.

church retreat packing list

Now, let’s go over the quick list of what to pack for church retreat before diving into more detail about each packing list item.

Church Retreat Packing List

  1. Bible.
  2. Notebook/journal.
  3. Pen/pencil.
  4. Bible highlighters.
  5. Retreat center appropriate clothing (hotel vs. camp).
  6. Pajamas.
  7. Swimsuit.
  8. Comfortable walking shoes.
  9. Sweater/lightweight jacket.
  10. Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, skin care, etc.).
  11. Tissues.
  12. Reusable water bottle.
  13. Bluetooth speaker.
  14. Earplugs/noise-canceling headphones.
  15. Day bag.
  16. Camp essentials if needed (sleeping bag, pillow, flashlight, bath towel, etc.)

What do people do at church retreats?

At church retreats, people come together for a weekend of worship sessions, speaker messages, topical seminar-style breakout sessions, fun activities, rest and community.

Usually, a weekend church retreat itinerary looks something like this:

Day One
1. Check in.
2. Main session (welcome from church staff, worship and a speaker message).
3. Free time.

Day Two
1. Breakfast.
2. Main session.
3. Breakout session.
4. Lunch.
5. Breakout session.
6. Free time.
7. Dinner.
8. Main session.
9. Free time.

Day Three
1. Breakfast.
2. Main session.
3. Pack/clean up.
4. Check out.

How do you prepare for a church retreat?

All you really have to do to prepare for a church retreat is pack. There is no need to otherwise prepare physically, mentally or spiritually. Come as you are!

If you want to feel more spiritually prepared for a church retreat, you can pray that God will prepare your heart for the retreat weekend ahead. Here’s a sample prayer you can use.

“Dear God, thank you so much for this opportunity to attend church retreat. I don’t know what you have planned for me to learn and experience on this trip, but I pray that you prepare my heart, mind, body and soul to receive whatever you have to offer. In Jesus name, amen.”

what to pack for a church retreat

What do you wear to a church retreat?

Casual attire is appropriate for the majority of church retreats. Some churches and Christian campsites have dress codes, such as no leggings or bikinis, but, for the most part, you can wear whatever you feel most comfortable in to a church retreat.

Again, what you wear will depend heavily on whether your retreat is taking place at a hotel or campground. Take the free time activities (hotel spa and pool vs. hiking and outdoor activities) into consideration before packing.

packing list for church retreat

What To Pack For A Church Retreat

Now, let’s dive a little deeper into the specifics of what to pack for a church retreat.

1. Bible

weekend church retreat packing list

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If you don’t own a Bible or don’t want to pack your physical Bible, the free YouVersion Bible app will work perfectly.

If you want to bring a physical Bible but aren’t sure which translation to bring, I recommend opting for the NIV or ESV translations. Those two translations are the most popular. Some church denominations prefer the KJV translation, but the NIV and ESV are generally easier to understand. Regardless, any translation will do.

I have personally used this NIV study Bible for years, and I love it.

2. Notebook/Journal

winter church retreat packing list

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Next, I also highly recommend bringing a notebook and/or journal to take notes during the main sessions and breakout sessions.

You definitely don’t need to take notes, but usually about half of the retreat attendees are actively taking notes, so you won’t be the only one.

3. Pen/Pencil

what to wear to a church retreat

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Naturally, you’ll want to bring pens and/or pencils to take notes as well.

If you’re picky about your pens like I am, I recommend bringing these fine point Sharpie pens for a smooth write. These pens have lasted years for me.

However, do not write in your Bible margins with these pens. The ink will bleed through the paper.

4. Bible Highlighters

wellness retreat

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Speaking of ink bleeding through thin Bible paper, if you want to highlight verses in your Bible, bring these Bible highlighters and pens.

Bible highlighters are specifically designed for thin Bible paper. They won’t bleed through, so you are free to highlight any verses you want.

5. Hotel Conference Center Clothing

As previously mentioned, the clothing you’ll want to pack will depend on a couple factors: seasonal weather and location.

If your church retreat is taking place at a hotel or resort conference center, you’re basically safe to pack any seasonally appropriate outfits — cute or comfortable — that you wish.

6. Camp Clothing (Church Retreat Packing List)

Now, if your retreat is taking place on a church campground, on the other hand, you’ll need to take this environment into consideration when packing clothes.

spiritual retreat

If your retreat is the summer, pack shorts and T-shirts.

If your retreat is in the winter, pack plenty of extra warm pants, long-sleeved shirts, sweaters/sweatshirts, socks, snow pants, winter boots and a warm winter coat.

Finally, if your retreat is in the fall or spring, pack pants, long-sleeved shirts and layering sweaters/sweatshirts. As a general rule of thumb, error on the side of cold weather when camping.

7. Pajamas

parents retreat

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Of course, you’ll want to pack pajamas for your overnight church retreat too.

If your retreat is at a campground, you’ll probably be sleeping on bunks in a cabin. Some campgrounds have heated cabins, but pack extra warm pajamas (sweatpants, sweatshirt and socks) just in case.

8. Swimsuit (Church Retreat Packing List)

couples retreat ideas

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This next church retreat packing list item is optional, but if your retreat center has a pool, sauna, lake or other swimming activities, bring a swimsuit.

Ladies, if you’re looking for a cute, affordable one-piece suit, I absolutely love my chic black one-piece from Amazon.

9. Tennis Shoes

church retreat packing list

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Furthermore, many retreat activities, regardless of retreat location, require tennis shoes. Obviously, if you’re staying at a hotel, the physical activity will be limited to optional exercise classes and/or hotel fitness center use.

On the contrary, if you’re staying on a campground, there will be many more free time activities that solicit gym shoes. For example, many campgrounds offer hiking, archery, ropes courses, zip lining and more.

what to pack for a church retreat

10. Sweater Or Lightweight Jacket

No matter what location or season, it’s always a good idea to bring a sweater, sweatshirt and/or lightweight jacket on every trip. Conference centers are cold. Summer nights get chilly. You get the idea.

11. Toiletries (Church Retreat Packing List)

Some toiletries you won’t want to forget on your retreat include the following.

  1. Toothbrush.
  2. Toothpaste.
  3. Skin care products.
  4. Hair care products.
  5. Shampoo.
  6. Conditioner.
  7. Body wash.
  8. Razor.
  9. Feminine hygiene products.
  10. Makeup.

This is not an extensive toiletries list by any means, but it is your reminder to pack your toiletries, nonetheless.

12. Tissues

packing list for church retreat

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Another toiletry worth individually noting is a package of facial tissues.

Sometimes, deep conversations at church retreats result in a few (good) tears. I always make sure to have this travel size pack of tissues in my day bag every day of the trip.

13. Reusable Water Bottle

weekend church retreat packing list

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Furthermore, it’s always a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle to fill and have in your day bag each day.

Your busy itinerary will leave little room for remembering to hydrate, and the best solution to this problem is to have water on you at all times.

14. Bluetooth Speaker (Church Retreat Packing List)

winter church retreat packing list

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Like the swimsuit, this church retreat packing list essential is optional. But, if you want the ability to play music in your hotel room or cabin, or by the camp bonfire, I definitely suggest bringing a bluetooth speaker.

My family is brand loyal to this Bose travel bluetooth speaker, but if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, this travel-friendly JBL blue speaker is an excellent alternative.

what to wear to a church retreat

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15. Earplugs/Noise-Canceling Headphones

wellness retreat ideas

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On the other hand, if you’re sensitive to noise when you’re sleeping, bring earplugs and/or noise-canceling headphones.

You will more than likely be sharing a room with at least three other people (10+ people if you’re sleeping in a cabin), so if you need silence to sleep, you’ll regret not bringing something to cover your ears.

Again, my family is loyal to these Bose noise-canceling headphones (Bose is loved by airline pilots and travelers worldwide), but these cheap earplugs will do the trick, too.

retreat activities

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16. Day Bag (Church Retreat Packing List)

spiritual retreat

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Now, as I’ve briefly mentioned already, it’s wise to bring a smaller day bag in addition to your suitcase to carry your Bible, notebook, pens, pencils, highlighters, water bottle and any other items you might want during the main sessions and breakout sessions.

That way, you won’t have to carry everything in your arms, or walk back and forth from your room every hour.

I absolutely love my Beis work tote for church retreats, traveling in general and as my day-to-day purse at home.

17. Church Retreat Camp Essentials

Last but not least, if you are going on a church retreat that is located on a campground, you have a few additional essentials that you will need to pack.

  1. Sleeping bag.
  2. Pillow.
  3. Blanket.
  4. Fitted sheet (if required).
  5. Flashlight.
  6. Shampoo, conditioner and body wash (not provided like in hotels).
  7. Bath towel and washcloth.
  8. Shower shoes.
  9. Warm pajamas.
  10. Hiking boots and/or tennis shoes.
  11. Battery operated fan (optional — I absolutely love my lanyard battery fan from Amazon for traveling).
  12. S’more ingredients (for fun).
The Ultimate Church Retreat Packing List

Was this church retreat packing list helpful? If you have any questions or items you would add to the list, comment in the reply section below or send me a DM on Instagram. I’m happy to help!

If You Like This Church Retreat Packing List, You’ll Love…

50 Genius Womenโ€™s Travel Essentials
20 Bible Verses For Travel Anxiety
Am I Going To Heaven? Hereโ€™s How To Be Sure

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By: Indigo Sahara

About Indigo Sahara

Indigo Sahara is a full-time travel blogger and photographer who has lived abroad twice, journeyed through 10+ countries and learned multiple languages. Since graduating with her master's degree, her goal now is to make travel accessible to all.

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Unpopular opinion: red eye flights are better. ๐Ÿ›ฉ

Hereโ€™s why:

1. They are often cheaper than daytime flights.
2. You get an entire extra day in your destination.

Even if the red eye and daytime flights are the same price, you get better bang for your buck because you get to spend more time in your destination.

For example, we got an entire extra day in Bora Bora for free by flying on the red eye. ๐ŸŒŠ๐Ÿ’ธ

Agree or disagree?

#travelreel #travelreels #travelreelsoninstagram #travelbloggervibes #redeyeflight #cheapflights
Dreaming up a trip to Positano, Italy? ๐Ÿ‹๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น

Save and screenshot this ultimate itinerary for 5 days in Positano on the Amalfi Coast of Italy!

Day 1: Explore Positanoโ€™s streets, shops and restaurants.
Day 2: Day trip to Amalfi Town (or Ravello).
Day 3: Day trip to Capri.
Day 4: Beach day at Spiaggia Grande.
Day 5: Fornillo Beach or a private beach club like @arienzobeachclubpositano 

For more itinerary details (how to get to Positano, activity details and more), head to:

indigosahara.com/positano-itinerary-5-days 

Buon viaggio! ๐Ÿค๐Ÿ‹๐ŸŒž๐ŸŒŠ

#positanoitaly #positanobeach #amalficoastitaly #italytrip #travelitinerary #travelguides #positano๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น
Heading to Italy โ€” soon or someday? ๐Ÿ‹๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น Heading to Italy โ€” soon or someday? ๐Ÿ‹๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น

Save and screenshot this one week Italy itinerary for Rome and the Amalfi Coast!

Day 1: Rome
Day 2: Rome
Day 3: Positano
Day 4: Amalfi Town
Day 5: Capri
Day 6: Positano
Day 7: Rome

Buon viaggio! ๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿค๐Ÿ๐Ÿ‹

#italyitinerary #italytravel #italytrip #romecity #positanoitaly #amalficoastitaly
How many have you been to out of 30? โœจ All of t How many have you been to out of 30? โœจ

All of these bucket list destinations are the perfect places to visit in Europe for an iconic European summer experience.

Iโ€™m personally very excited to check a few more off the list this summer. ๐Ÿคญ

Remember to SAVE this summer bucket list for easy access later! 

#europedestinations #europetrip #europeansummer #summertravel #travel
12 flights for $175 USD total. ๐Ÿ’ธ Hereโ€™s how๐Ÿ‘‡๐Ÿผ

Travel hacking!

AKA taking advantage of credit card points and credit card opening bonuses. ๐Ÿ’ธ๐Ÿ’ธ

This is just from putting all of our regular expenses on travel credit cards over the past six-ish months (groceries, house renovation expenses, clothes, etc.), paying the card off in full every month and racking up free miles.

So, what travel credit card is best, you ask?

I wish there was a simple answer, but the truth is, it depends on your personal goals as a traveler.

Thatโ€™s why Iโ€™ve created a FREE downloadable quiz (link in bio) that you can take to determine which travel credit card you should open.

This travel hacking quiz is going to tell you exactly which travel credit card is best for you, no matter if youโ€™re new to travel credit card points or a seasoned travel hacking pro.

If you take the quiz, let me know what you get!! ๐Ÿ’ฌ

(Disclaimer: I am not a financial advisor, and this is not financial advice. Always consult a professional who knows your unique financial situation. Always follow credit card best practices, such as paying your card off in full on time every month.)

#travelhacking #travelcreditcards #freeflights #freetravel #budgettravel #budgettraveltips #europeansummer

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