---
title: The Ultimate Packing Checklist for your YWAM DTS - YWAM Asheville
description: Headed to a YWAM DTS? Here is the ultimate packing checklist for what you’ll want to be sure to pack before you head out!
---

[YWAM Asheville Blog ](https://ywamasheville.org/ywam-asheville-blog)

# [The Ultimate Packing Checklist for your YWAM DTS - YWAM Asheville](https://ywamasheville.org/ywam-asheville-blog/the-ultimate-checklist-for-your-ywam-dts)

 Written by [Kaari Speer](https://ywamasheville.org/ywam-asheville-blog/author/kaari-speer) | Jun 29, 2021 7:55:57 AM

# The Ultimate Packing Checklist for Your YWAM DTS

### Introduction

Getting ready to head to a YWAM Discipleship Training School? You’re about to embark on one of the most life-changing adventures of your life! To help you prepare, we’ve created the ultimate packing checklist so you’ll arrive with everything you need—and leave behind the things you don’t.

## Why Choose Asheville for DTS?

There are countless reasons YWAM Asheville is the perfect place to do your DTS. Here are a few that stand out:

- **Our Location** – The Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina provide a stunning backdrop for growth, adventure, and time with God.
- **Our City** – Asheville is unlike any other in the American South: a hub of art, music, diversity, and spiritual hunger.
- **Our Ministries** – We’re committed to three main areas:
  
    1. **Training missionaries and leaders** passionate about Jesus and the nations.
    2. **Serving locally**—especially children at risk and those experiencing homelessness.
    3. **Walking alongside women affected by trafficking**, helping restore what’s been stolen.

Because our base is small and family-oriented, you won’t get lost in the crowd. Every student has staff who walk closely with them, and you’ll quickly discover that you are seen, loved, and part of a family.

## 12 Essentials to Pack for Your DTS

Wherever you do your DTS, here are 12 must-have items to bring:

1. **Clothing:**
   
     - 4–5 casual outfits (class, ministry, outings)
     - 2–3 work outfits you don’t mind getting dirty
     - 1–2 slightly dressy outfits for church or special events
     - Modest pajamas/loungewear
     - Enough underwear and socks for 8–9 days
2. **Shoes:**
   
     - Comfy walking shoes (you’ll need them!)
     - Sandals
     - Simple dress shoes (something practical enough for outreach)
3. **Bible** – Your most important tool.
4. **Passport** – Up-to-date with at least 10 months before expiration.
5. **Water bottle** – Durable and reusable.
6. **Medications** – Anything you’ll need during your 5–6 months away.
7. **Towels** – 1–2 lightweight, quick-dry options.
8. **Bedding** – Check with your DTS staff; a lightweight sleeping bag often works best for outreach.
9. **Toiletries** – Just the basics; you can purchase extras upon arrival.
10. **Day bag** – A small backpack or crossbody bag for everyday use.
11. **Luggage for outreach** – Typically a 50–70L backpacking pack (but always check with your base).
12. **Weather-appropriate layers** – Sweater, jacket, or rain gear, depending on your base’s climate.

## Bonus Items Worth Considering

- **Electives/Tracks Supplies** – Does your DTS run electives or a focused passion track? Find out from your contact!  Art & Design? Bring your sketchbook. Sports & Fitness? Pack extra workout gear. Photography? Camera + SD cards.
- **Swimsuit** – One-piece or modest option for base-approved outings.
- **Instrument** – Small and travel-friendly for worship nights.
- **Sunglasses + Hat** – Helpful, but don’t bring anything you’d be crushed to lose.

## Packing Do’s and Don’ts

✅ **Do:**

- Keep modesty in mind—help everyone focus on Jesus.
- Research your base’s climate and pack accordingly. Here in Asheville, fall is a mix of warm and cold temperatures, and winter can be quite bitter. Be sure to bring layers that will work for a variety of climates. 
- Check with staff for outreach-specific clothing (some locations may require skirts, head coverings, or closed-toe shoes).
- Pack light—space is always limited.

❌ **Don’t:**

- Bring irreplaceable valuables (jewelry, heirlooms).
- Overpack books—you’ll get plenty of reading material.
- Load up on makeup or hair tools—simplify your routine and enjoy the freedom.
- Travel with giant bottles of shampoo/lotion—buy or share once you arrive.

## Final Takeaway

Packing is important—but what matters most is what you bring in your heart. Come ready with flexibility, openness, and a willingness to say **yes** to whatever God has planned.

Still deciding where to do your DTS? YWAM Asheville might be the place for you. Our application only takes 3 minutes (and it’s free!). We can’t wait to welcome you into the family.

[View full post](https://ywamasheville.org/ywam-asheville-blog/the-ultimate-checklist-for-your-ywam-dts)

```json
{
  "@context" : "http://schema.org",
  "@type" : "BlogPosting",
  "author" : {
    "@type" : "Person",
    "name" : "Kaari Speer"
  },
  "dateModified" : "2025-10-24T14:42:28.391Z",
  "datePublished" : "2021-06-29T07:55:57Z",
  "headline" : "The Ultimate Packing Checklist for your YWAM DTS",
  "image" : {
    "@type" : "ImageObject",
    "height" : 2336,
    "url" : "https://6191531.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/6191531/Screenshot%202025-08-19%20at%2012.05.46%20PM.png",
    "width" : 4474
  },
  "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://ywamasheville.org/ywam-asheville-blog/the-ultimate-checklist-for-your-ywam-dts",
  "publisher" : {
    "@type" : "Organization",
    "logo" : {
      "@type" : "ImageObject",
      "height" : 60.0,
      "url" : "https://6191531.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/6191531/YWAM%20(1).png",
      "width" : 60.0
    },
    "name" : "YWAM Asheville Blog"
  }
}
```