If you're reporting to the MTC in the next few weeks, this one's for you. After outfitting missionaries for decades, we've learned that the calmest departures all follow the same rhythm. Here's the countdown we've given our own kids: what to buy now, what to skip, and what to leave for the field.
6+ weeks out: Get the big items fitted first
Start with anything that needs alterations or testing. Order suits, pants, shoes, dresses, skirts, or other clothing that needs this work as soon as possible. Leave time for any further alterations and thoroughly test your shoes before you fly.
Legacy Suit (Charcoal): $189Many missionaries are told to bring only a single suit. For example, if you are going to a hot-weather mission, you'll just need a suit for the MTC, and it will probably be stored at the mission home until your return flight. If you are going on a single-suit mission (or need a suit for church, dances, interviews, etc.), the Legacy suit is a cost-effective option. Its 2-Way stretch fabric moves with you, and it works for monthly zone meetings, church, or just the MTC. If you need a workhorse suit, we suggest the washable 2-pant, 4-way stretch Flex suit. For casual use on a budget, consider the Legacy suit. Shop the suit |
R&B Harrison, Chocolate Brown: $175Made from full-grain leather, these shoes are waterproof and comfortable from day one. Buy two pairs (any styles of the H-Line) and they qualify for our 2-Year Wearproof Guarantee. Shop the shoes |
4 weeks out: Consider Extras
You'll wear these more than anything else, so consider extras. Once you've broken in a few pairs of shoes, you might want another pair or two, especially if you are serving overseas. Extra pairs let you rotate shoes more often. You might not be able to find your size in-country, and shipping shoes internationally can be expensive and a bit of a gamble if local postal workers inspect your package and like your shoes. The same goes for shirts, dress pants, sisters' clothing, socks, etc. Paying excess baggage fees can be better and more reliable than constantly needing items sent to you.
Dot Dakota boot: $195. Waterproof, supportive, and built for miles, this comfortable second shoe saves your feet on P-days and in areas with lots of walking. Pair it with easy-care dresses and pants for a full week without repeats. Shop Sister essentials
2 weeks out: The small stuff that's easy to forget
Pack a basic sewing and repair kit, a shoe conditioner to stretch the life of your shoes, and a phone battery backup. They're little things, but they're the ones people email home asking for during week one. If you do need anything from our stores, we make at least 2-3 deliveries per week to the Provo MTC.
Pro Tip! Unpack, wash, and wear only one shirt before your mission in case you need to exchange the rest for a different size or sleeve length! Since opened shirts can't be resold at full price (we usually donate them or sell them at the outlet at a huge discount), we charge a nominal restocking fee on opened shirts.
Mission Grade proof: We've helped 595,501 Elders and Sisters prepare for missions. Everything we sell is built to survive a full two years, and our 2-Year Guarantee means if it doesn't, we make it right.
Don't forget to enjoy and document your mission prep! We know it is stressful, but someday you'll get a kick out of looking at those photos and reading your mission prep journal. And if you don't, your kids and grandkids definitely will!
See you out there,
Jon & Jenni