Yes, generally mission trip expenses may be claimed as charitable contributions if you itemize your deductions. See IRS Publication 526 for the requirements.
The following are best practices:
- Payments for mission trip expenses and/or contributions for material/supply needs for a mission trip should be make payable to a church or non-profit 502(c)3 organization.
- Donations for an individual, other than self, should be made payable to a church or non-profit 501(c)3 organization.
- Receipts indicating general expenses (food, toiletries, medications, etc.) needed in association with a mission trip should be kept.
- Any monies paid for mission trip expenses not paid to a church or non-profit 501(c)3 organization should have a letter indicating participation.
To enter, see the TurboTax FAQ: How do I enter my 2019 charitable donations in TurboTax?