South America is one of the world's most fantastic regions. Visit the "city at the end of the world" in Patagonia and attend the lively Carnival celebration in Rio de Janeiro. From spectacular landscapes to rich local cultures, this continent has something for every traveler.
With such a wide variety of things to explore, you'll need a comprehensive South America Packing List like this one. We will also touch on what to wear in South America, what NOT to bring, and other FAQs.
A neck wallet is an invaluable item to bring with you on your trip to South America. Keep yourself safe from pickpockets and petty theft by wearing this handy neck wallet beneath your clothes when visiting crowded or touristy areas. We love this one because it's large enough to carry your cell phone, passport, credit cards and more and has several pockets to keep your belongings safe and organized.
Another essential item when traveling to remote locations is a lipstick-sized portable charger. You don't want to be stuck without a GPS, camera, or ability to call and text if your smartphone runs out of battery at an inopportune moment. This one is compact and reliable, and will easily fit in your daypack, purse, or even pocket.
Though you may not realize it, using a VPN can do wonders to keep your personal information private and secure when traveling. A VPN will keep your passwords, credit card information, and identity safe when you connect to WiFi in public places, such as cafes, airports, and hotels. We prefer to use this one because it's low cost and efficient. Not to mention, it’s awesome for mitigating regional censorship so you’re not blocked from surfing the web like you would back home.
A continent renowned for fantastic outdoor adventure, a waterproof phone case will certainly come in handy at least once throughout your trip. Whether you're rafting down the Amazon River or snorkeling in the Galapagos Islands, you'll want to be sure your smartphone is protected. This one is great because it enables you to use your camera and even take video underwater!
Packing cubes are a must-bring on my own backpacking trips. They keep you extremely organized, and make packing and unpacking super easy. These come in a set of 5 different sizes and a variety of bright colors, and also include a separate laundry pouch, and a shoe bag. I like to use a medium-sized cube for my clothing, and a smaller cube for socks and underwear. You can even start with the 3 pack if you’re scared of commitment 🙂
South America is full of unpredictable circumstances, and you’ll want to be covered in case something goes wrong. Solid travel insurance is especially important when going overseas and no one plans for an emergency to come up while on vacation. We always use travel insurance because it can cover the costs of lost luggage, stolen items, flight cancellations and medical emergencies.
Faye is the best provider we’ve found for reliable protection without all the paperwork and haggling. They streamline support through their app and offer 24/7 support for any questions you have. Simply file a claim online and you’ll have a reimbursement in no time – so you can focus on the joys of travel and not stress about the inevitable mishaps.
A good windproof umbrella will surely prove invaluable during your time spent in South America. Depending on which season you choose to visit, you may experience significant bouts of rain regardless of which country you’re in. Be prepared to face the elements with this sturdy, windproof travel umbrella.
Depending on your preferred travel style, you’ll need to decide whether you’d prefer a suitcase or a backpacking pack. I prefer a backpack when hopping around from place to place because it’s much easier to transport, and saves me time and money in airports (no checked bags!). This one is fantastic because it comes with a separate daypack that clips on and off for your shorter single-day excursions.
Infrastructure in South American airports may not be as developed, and baggage goes through a whirlwind on it’s way to your destination! Between the conveyor belts, slides, and rough baggage handling, you’ll want to reinforce your bags with these trusty straps. They adjust to fit on nearly any type of bag, even your carry-on so it can squeeze into the overhead compartment more easily. I love the bright colors because we can spot our collective sets more easily and get the heck out of the airport (instead of grabbing every similar black bag that vaguely resembles ours).
This is of the upmost importance to me when traveling to an area that doesn’t offer consistently reliable water. While it varies greatly depending on the region, South Americas water can be exposed to toxins from the sewage and litter, even in Rio De Jinero, it is not recommended to drink the tap. This water bottle is awesome since the filter is built-in and it (literally) saves lives. Filtering out harmful bacteria like E. Coli, salmonella, and even microplastics, sediment, and pesticides. It’s a little pricey, but so is a trip to the hospital for a waterborne illness.
A quick dry towel is a must. Regular towels take forever to dry, and if you need to pack up your things and move to your next destination before your towel is dry, you’ll end up with a damp and mildewy backpack. We like this one because it’s compact and dries super fast so you can fold it up and stash it away moments before traveling to your next destination.
Particularly important for South America, these mosquito-repellent wristbands will protect you from the likes of dengue, chikungunya, Oropouche virus, and more. We love them for our family since they’re wearable – which means we don’t have to respray toxic chemicals or choke on that smell all day – and they’re reusable. Stick them on your wrists and ankles and call it a day!
Did you know that they’re not even making phones anymore with a physical SIM card? It’s old news to stand in line at the airport for a piece of plastic that can break, get lost, or be stolen. The modern age has gifted us with the blessing of eSIM, a new wave in data consumption that streamlines the entire process.
Imagine landing in South America and not dealing with any lapses in your internet or being price-gauged with roaming fees – it’s a treat! Saily is our go-to since they’re backed by NordVPN, a leader in cybersecurity. It’s also a data-only plan that you pay for in advance, so you don’t have to fuss with a new phone number or hidden fees.
Our gift to you: Use our link for 5% off (code: ASHER5).
A universal adapter will undoubtedly come in handy as you make your way through the many countries of South America which use varying outlet styles. My favorite thing about this one is that it has two USB ports, so you can charge multiple devices at once. It also comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee!
Merino wool is the miracle fabric of the traveling world. It keeps you cool when it’s hot out, and warm when it’s cold out. It repels the growth of fungus and bacteria, so it will never stink, which is an invaluable quality in travel clothing! This merino wool pullover is perfect for backpacking in South America.
These are a space-saving hack! Instead of throwing all of your shampoo and moisturizer bottles into little plastic sackies, this beautiful bag consolidates all of your liquid items and makeup to one place. Bathrooms in South America can be hit-or-miss – you might have a hostel/co-ed situation or you may have only a sink to juggle bottles on. In case of limited storage, this is the perfect solution for creating a shelf-like system anywhere!
The 360-swivel hook can hang on any door, shower pole, or hook, giving you an eye-level view at all of your products. I love it so much, I leave it packed for anything from weekend trips to longer getaways, so I can get out the door so much quicker now and it saves our family’s sanity.
If you plan to do any nature activities, convertible pants will save you a headache. Since they detach at the knee, you can leave them longer for colder days or remove the lower part if the trim gets muddy or wet. This pair has a unique silver fiber that has a cooling effect for temperature regulation (something you will seriously appreciate in the humidity!) and it’s nice to have the option for regular or tall length.
Sadly, we’ve had something stolen out of our checked suitcase. It was only a pair of nice sunglasses thankfully, but now we opt for the rule of ‘better safe than sorry’. These luggage locks will keep sticky fingers out of your baggage, but they’re TSA-friendly in case you’re selected for a random search. Use them for anything from luggage to city lockers and rest easy since they’re 10x more secure than a 3-digit code. I use my birth year and never forget it!
If you’re not wandering around the coastline, getting lost in rainforest, or trekking through salt fields, you’re missing out on the best of South America. Walking shoes are an absolute must for any trip to the region. If you plan on doing a bit of hiking (which you definitely should!) bring some walking and hiking shoes like these.
These are the unsung heroes of our packing list, a small but mighty addition that confines all the rainforest muck and street gunk to one designated place. The water-resistant lining keeps your suitcase pristine and these are perfect for excursion days when you need a place to stash your wet or dirty items. My wife’s even used this as a makeup or toiletry sack. Between the rain, rivers, and city strolls, you’ll be glad to have these to confine the grime.
“I wish I had packed ONE MORE BAG!” Haven’t all travelers experienced this? Instead of buying a low-quality one from a tacky souvenir shop, get this duffle option in advance and stow it away for future trinkets and treats that you’ll bring back from your trip. This one folds down to take up zero space when empty, but when full, it can count as your personal item on the flight back. No carry-on fees? Heck yes!
If you’ve never heard of a cooling towel, this one is a treat! It works like magic to drop 20-30 degrees colder than the outside temperature, simply add water and wring it out. Not only is it chemical free and infinitely reusable, but we’ve found that it makes outdoor activities much more enjoyable and we can last longer in the heat. I wrap it around my neck or put it in my hat sometimes to add a little frosty relief to where heat most escapes the body.
Attach this to anything you don’t want to lose! These flotation wriststraps act as a bracelet to keep your phone, keys, or any essentials thoroughly connected to you for any wild rides. Whether you’re floating down the Amazon or swimming on the coast, you’ll want to ensure the most important things are buoyant and stay within reach. I’ve lost my phone (even with a waterproof case connected) so now I take the extra step to attach this flotation device.
Pack your swimsuit and get ready to paddle board off the coast of Chile, raft down the Amazon and swim in all sorts of magical swimming holes. Bring a swimsuit that is suitable for athletic activities as well as beach bumming.
A wise addition to your packing list is a trusty sleeping bag liner or travel sheet. Use it in questionable hostel beds or as an extra layer of warmth inside your actual sleeping bag. These are also excellent for preventing bed bug bites. This one is lightweight so it won’t weigh you down, and you’ll definitely be glad to have it when you need that extra layer of comfort and security.
Its smart to keep a small first aid kit with you whenever you travel or do anything outdoors. This will definitely come in handy when you need to take care of things like hiking boot blisters, scrapes, food poisoning, allergies, splinters, and so much more. Pack a small and convenient kit like this one to give you peace of mind and to keep you safe on your journey.
A good headlamp is a true necessity for backpacking trips, and you’ll use it much more often than you think. A headlamp is invaluable for early mornings or late nights in dark hostel rooms, camping, and night hikes. This one is durable and reliable which is perfect for a South American adventure.
South America boasts the full spectrum of landscapes and climates, from snowy mountains to sunny beaches. When deciding what to wear, be mindful of the season in which you’re visiting (remember that seasons are flipped in South America). Be sure to check what the weather will be like in your destination before you go.
Pack clothing that can be layered and repurposed, and try to think in terms of functionality rather than style. Try to blend in by wearing clothes that aren’t too flashy – you don’t want to stand out as a tourist!
What women should wear in South America will depend on the season and weather in the destination. In most scenarios, casual hiking pants, neutral-colored t-shirts, and leggings will be a good bet to keep you comfortable and blending in. Bring quality, multipurpose clothes instead of trying to bring something for every scenario. Don’t forget sunglasses, a packable down jacket, and your swimsuit.
Men should be sure to dress for the season and weather in the destination they’re visiting. Typically, bringing versatile hiking and traveling clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, wool socks, and hiking shoes will be best. Bring plenty of clothes for layering and swimsuits, too!
Keep in mind that in the southern hemisphere, seasons are reversed. Summer takes place from December to February, and winter from June to August. Also note that the further south you go, the more extreme and fluctuating temperatures you can expect. You will experience milder temperatures the closer you get to the equator throughout the year. Be sure to Check the weather of your destination before you go!
Spring in South America is one of the best times to visit the continent, as temperatures are pleasantly warm and there are fewer crowds of tourists. In regions where it’s relevant, the spring months also constitute dry season, which is ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and viewing a variety of wildlife.
The summer months in South America are hot and humid throughout the continent. Consider visiting the region’s beaches and coastal cities to help beat the intense heat. Regions nearby the equator will also experience wet season during this time, so if you plan to visit countries like Peru or Ecuador, be prepared with a raincoat and umbrella. Regardless of your destination, be sure to pack plenty of lightweight clothing and use layers to adapt to changing temperatures.
Fall in South America is another wonderful time for a visit, as temperatures are mild and you will experience fewer crowds of tourists. This is a great time to visit the larger cities, like Buenos Aires and Santiago, where you will still be comfortable dining outdoors and exploring the abundant rooftop terraces. Bring plenty of lightweight clothing for layering, and prepare for relatively warm days and cooler evenings.
Winter in South America runs from June to August. Temperatures throughout the continent will be mostly mild during the winter months, unless you visit the Andes Mountains, which are popular for skiing and wintertime activities. In high altitude destinations, prepare for cool days and very cold nights. Be sure to pack plenty of warm clothes for layering so you can easily adapt to changing temperatures.
Hiking and Trekking – Athletic clothing like shorts, leggings, tank tops, and t-shirts are ideal for these activities. Whether you’re doing three days on the Inca trail, or just a day hike through part of the Amazon rainforest, be prepared with broken-in hiking shoes!
Mountain and Rock Climbing – For climbs in Patagonia and other popular tourist destinations, you’ll be able to find tour companies and outfitters that can loan you any technical gear. Bring your own climbing shoes, and plan on borrowing a harness, helmet, crampons, etc.
Sightseeing – Keep it casual with comfortable, neutral-colored clothes or be a bit trendier with a sundress and sandals. Be respectful when visiting religious sites around South America, such as churches and cathedrals, by covering your shoulders and chest with a shawl or light sweater. Consider bringing a long skirt or maxi dress for these occasions, and avoid wearing anything too tight or short!
Especially if you plan to backpack through South America, the last thing you’ll want is a bulky, heavy, overstuffed pack to lug around. Bring only the essentials and versatile, multipurpose clothing to ensure you have a comfortable and manageable trip.
No matter where you’re going, you can usually find the toiletries you need locally. Bring enough soap, toothpaste and other essentials to last you a week, then buy as you go to cut down on weight. We recommend bringing TSA approved travel-sized bottles and refilling them cheaply throughout your trip.
Leave behind valuable items like expensive jewelry and electronics to avoid making yourself a target for pickpockets. It will also ease your mind knowing that your important things are safe at home.
Heavy denim clothing and backpacking endeavors do not mix. Jeans are bulky and slow to dry, which is the opposite of what you’ll want to fill the precious space in your backpack or suitcase. Instead, opt for leggings or other lightweight pants; we guarantee you’ll be much happier in the long run!
Wearing dark-colored, patterned clothing will help disguise the fact that you haven’t done laundry since you landed in Iquitos three weeks ago. You’ll be much better off leaving your white and light-colored clothing at home to avoid having it stained and ruined during your trip.
Save on space and weight by bringing a Kindle. If you must bring a book, walk into a hostel anywhere on the continent once you’re finished and exchange it with a new one for free.
The three cheapest airports to fly into are:
Spanish is widely spoken throughout the continent. Portuguese is also quite common as Brazil is the largest country in South America. Some level of English is spoken throughout the majority of countries in South America, though you would be wise to learn some basic phrases in Spanish (and Portuguese if visiting Brazil).
Other native languages and dialects such as Quechua are also spoken regionally throughout the continent.
Although the roads are not in the best condition in most places in South America, there is a huge network of bus routes that can easily take you from country to country or city to city if you have the patience and the time. Buses are by far the cheapest way to get around the continent, though flying is certainly safer and more comfortable. Flying is also the quicker option, though it’s much more expensive.
The following vaccines are typically recommended before visiting South America, though you should always check with your local healthcare provider before traveling:
You can check out up-to-date information here.
Asher has been traveling the world since he left Australia to study in the USA in 2004. He received a Master’s in Business Administration degree in 2013. He has lived all over the globe including India, Europe, Hawaii, and mainland US. He enjoys researching the travel industry, loves being a dad, cooking & eating delicious food, photography (took many of our photos), surfing big waves on Maui, camping trips and walking barefoot on the earth.
