The number one thing to consider when packing for South America is to dress in layers. High-altitude cities coupled with heat-intense jungles, mild beaches, and cooler evenings mean temperatures can fluctuate within the span of a day.
Disclaimer: Some of the links below are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, Ker & Downey earns a small commission when you click through and make a purchase.
South America Packing List
Pants & Shorts
- 2 pairs of durable nylon or cotton pants or pants that convert to shorts, for hiking (Men | Women)
- 1 pair of shorts, if you do not have convertible pants (Men | Women)
- 1 pair of comfortable lightweight pants, for travel days (Men | Women)
- 1 pair of jeans or other casual long pants, for horseback rides and estancia visits
- 1 pair of trousers or long skirt, for evening activities (Men | Women)
Shirts & Dresses
- 2 comfortable long-sleeve shirts, for layering (Men | Women)
- 2 short-sleeve t-shirts or tank tops for women (Men | Women)
- 2 casual short-sleeve shirts (Men)
- 1 swim shirt or swimsuit coverup, if visiting a coastal region (Women)
- 2 nicer shirts or dresses, for evening meals
Outerwear
- 1 lightweight, waterproof rain jacket with hood. If traveling to Patagonia, consider packing one with a down insert. (Men | Women)
- 1 fleece for cooler evenings (Men | Women)
Shoes and Accessories
- 1 pair of lightweight hiking or walking shoes (Men | Women)
- 1 pair of comfortable soft-sole shoes for wearing in the room, the spa, or around the hotel pool
- 1 pair of water-resistant sports sandals, like Tevas or Chacos (Men | Women)
- 8-10 pairs of socks
- 8-10 pairs of undergarments
- 1-2 swimsuits (Bring more than 1 if traveling to the Galapagos, as the humidity will not allow them to dry easily.)
- 1 sun hat with brim protection and head strap
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- A water-resistant daypack
Additional Recommendations
- Binoculars
- Camera, including extra memory cards, batteries, and chargers
- Universal wall plug adapter kit
- Sunscreen with high SPF
- Lip balm
- Insect repellent, if traveling to the Amazon
- Personal toiletries
- Any medications you are taking at the time of travel
- Motion sickness medicine if traveling on a boat
- Preferred pain relievers
- Extra cash for tipping
Many hotels, ships, and lodges will have these items on offer, but if you have a preference and the room in your luggage, by all means take it with you.
Pantanal Safari in Brazil
Heading on a jaguar safari in Brazil's Pantanal? Here's what you'll want to pack for six days in the Pantanal.
See the Packing ListReady to travel to South America?
You can find the full list for men and women on our Amazon Storefront. Then the last -- and most important -- thing to pack is your passport (plus a colored photo copy). Also, be sure to check out of Pre-Trip Travel Preparation Checklist to ensure your trip goes off without a hitch!
Contact your Ker & Downey travel designer to book your South America adventure today.