Nope to Soap!

When my husband and I were preparing to move to Malawi in Aug. of 2007, we were advised to bring all sorts of silly things. One thing we brought WAY TOO MUCH of was soap. You can actually get bars of Dove soap here for cheaper than in the States. Sponges, dish towels, shampoo, toothpaste and tooth brushes are all things that we brought that we shouldn't have. It's a waste of money and space. Even dishes can be bought in town at our favorite store Santa Plaza for great prices (less than a dollar a plate/bowl).
Focus more on the things you will miss and cannot replace like family photos, your favorite blanket, bath towels and a good non stick pan! We also didn't bring enough food. Ovaltine will help your kids gulp down the not so tasty milk here and ranch packets and soup packets will really come in handy.