Preparing for your first Vipassana retreat

Are you about to embark on a ten day Vipassana meditation retreat? Then I guess this is one of many articles the wonderful web has led you to: searching for why others signed up, how it felt, and how their lives changed as a result.

Our organised coach dropped us to the top of the valley, and we had to carry our bags over a rocky path the remainder of the way — another reason to just take what’s required. Photo: Savraj Kaur.

While junking out on others’ stories can be interesting, a word to the wise, you only need to pack the right things. I realised this a few hours into my ten days at Dhamma Atala in Tuscany because although I followed an essential packing list that was provided; I missed useful things like indoor slippers, detergent, and even a torch to get around after before sunrise and after dark.

So, I took it upon myself to create the ultimate Vipassana packing list, here:

Absolute essentials:

• Linen, including a bedsheet and pillowcase
• Toiletries, non scented so as not to distract, including soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, sanitary items, shampoo and conditioner
• Daily clothing, modest, i.e. long sleeves and trousers that are loose fitting (ensure you pack enough for the entire stay, laundry facilities aren’t always available)
• Outdoor clothing, including waterproof jacket, shoes and a brolly, as you may need to walk between buildings frequently
• A water bottle, specifically a thermos if you like hot water, this will be the one thing you carry absolutely everywhere

Nice to have:

• Silent travel clock, because even though the gong will let you know when sessions are beginning and ending, this is a great way to be more conscious of how to plan your spare time
• Flashlight, ideally a head torch to wear when walking back to the sleeping quarters from the early or late meditation sessions
• Indoor slippers, comfy and protective
• Outdoor slip on shoes, a few people had crocs which are so useful for the amount of taking off and putting on you’ll do
• Sunhat and sunglasses, with so much sitting, you’ll want to stretch your legs outdoors including during peak sun)
• Non-wired bras, because you don’t need underwire if meditating
• Dental floss, turns out flossing is a brilliant way to pass spare time
• Earplugs, in case you end up sharing with a snorer
• Sleep mask, because meditation is exhausting and you’ll find yourself dozing off in day breaks
• Detergent, in case you decide to hand wash small items
• Mosquito repellent, if necessary, but without a strong scent, as that would distract you and others when meditating
• Meditation cushion and shawl, they’re provided, but if you have something that already works for you then by all means bring it along, as finding the perfect sitting posture is a little hurdle we all go through
• Cash or card to ‘pay what you want’ at the end of the course, a suggested amount will be given but there is no pressure and certainly no requisite to do so immediately

Don’t bother bringing (they’ll get locked away):

• Books
• Writing materials
• Snacks
• Electronics
• Tobacco, alcohol, drugs

Midday walk under the sun in Dhamma Atala. My cap pretty certainly saved me from sunburn! Photo: Savraj Kaur

If even after this you arrive and find you’re missing something, don’t worry. Staff and volunteers are incredibly helpful, and you’re actually permitted to communicate with your course leader about your needs or concerns. Centres are also well stocked with extras, and I ended up borrowing a beautiful pair of woven indoor slippers from a huge store cupboard.

I hope this list helps you enjoy your journey as a student of Vipassana even more. Remember, you don’t really need to try to prepare in any other way, don’t have expectations; go only with the intention to complete the full course.

The rest is your unique journey. Enjoy the ride, and be happy.

❤

Ps. if you want to recommend other useful items, please mention them in the comments, I’d be delighted to update the list.