The following list is what I take along when I go on a VFI / Sar-El work
program. I am expressing are my OWN PERSONAL opinion – and
not the opinions of VFI or Sar-El.
The work program can be viewed as a step up from
camping.
I focus on LIGHT and USEFUL. Use your own COMMON
SENSE.
Radio – AM/FM or SW (small, portable)
(Only if you are a news hound)
Israel radio (KOL ISRAEL-Radio 1 - AM 531, FM 98.4, FM 100.7) has English
news broadcast three times a day (7AM, 1:10PM, 8PM). You can also pick
up the BBC (AM 1323) throughout
the day.
Knife –
Swiss Army knife or a folding blade knife (I like the Gerber’s E-Z
Out knife).
If you take a utility knife - pack it in you CHECKED BAGGAGE - NOT
your hand carry - remember SECURITY.
Multi-Tool –
If you have a Leatherman or a Gerber multi-tool (pliers, screw heads,
etc.) here is a chance to use them. Supply Sergeants (in any army)
are reluctant to give away tools (even if that is their job). Bring
your own.
Remember
LIGHT
and USEFUL.
Flashlight –
You want a small, compact light with a strong beam. I like the Pelican
Versabright II or the Pelican L1 LED flashlight. It costs about ~$10.
Great flashlight. Useful when you go to the bathroom in the middle of
the night
or when
walking
down the
dark country
road back to the base – so the drivers can see you. This would
also make a great present for a soldier when you leave.
Camping Towels –
These towels are made of synthetic material. They are super absorbent – and
dry by wringing out. Many of them are treated with chemical to retard
the growth of bacteria so they don’t smell. Beats dealing with
moist towels. Most camping stores will carry them. About ~$12-$15 depending
on size.
Work Gloves –
Get the Gripper kind – found in most hardware store’s gardening
section. They have a rubber on the palm side – cloth on the back size.
Washable. They provide a good fit – good grip – protection of
your hands when you are doing wet, dirty, and nasty work. About $3-$5. Can
be viewed as a throw-way – or leave them for the next group.
Rope –
Get a small diameter nylon rope at a camping store. Good for hanging
up clothes if the regular clothes lines are full. Light weight and
useful.
Zip-lock or Re-closeable plastic bags –
Take a couple of various sizes. You will find a use for them.
Camera and Film –
Unless you are a great photographer – cheap camera are as good as the
expensive ones. Don’t forget to stock up on film.
Calculator –
You want a small, solar-powered one. Usefully when converting currency
or paying bills. Good if you have Math homework to do :-).
Batteries –
Bring some extra batteries. Carry them in one of the Zip-lock bags
(I told you will find a use for them).
Pen and Paper –
You might be inspired that write that article that will convince others
to come on the VFI – Sar-El work program. Good for writing the names
of the new friends you are about to make. 3 x 5 cards are also useful.
Keep the pens in a Zip-lock bag.
Cliff Bars -
I usually take a couple of Cliff Bars in case I get stuck somewhere
without food. You can choose your own brand. Another item to put
in those Zip-lock bags.
If you decide to look at some of these items – a good place to
do so is on http://froogle.google.com
Have a safe trip and a great adventure!
Josef Herz
VFI-PacificNW