South America Packing List

The following are general packing suggestions, you will have your own preferences. See country specific guidance for additional recommendations and climate information. 

Our top recommendation is: Travel light! We recommend keeping to one bag per person of maximum 20 kg and one small bag to carry what you need during the day. If you keep within these limits you’ll find things more convenient when travelling from place to place. 

Most hotels offer laundry services for a fee, so there is no need to take large quantities of clothing. A strong suitcase or soft bag is usually the best option for your main item of luggage. Take a sturdy bag that can handle some rough treatment and protects what’s inside. In addition to your main bag, a small daypack is very useful. 

When taking flights, pack what you cannot live without into your carry-on luggage – keys, valuables, medication, etc. Consider packing a change of clothing in your carry-on luggage in case your main bag does not arrive at the same time as you.

• Passport (with necessary visas!) plus copies 
• Yellow Fever vaccination or exemption certificate if needed
• Cash
• Credit and debit cards 
• Your travel vouchers (provided by us shortly before you depart) and itinerary
• Printouts of e-tickets for your flights 
• Travel insurance details (this can be requested by immigration on arrival in some countries) Contact details for your bank, card and phone providers 
• Money belt 
• Lightweight trousers/pants or dress 
• Shorts 
• Short and long sleeve tops including some that give protection from the sun 
• Swimsuit 
• Light sweater and jacket – even if visiting hot areas, air conditioning can be strong on planes, in restaurants, etc. 
• At least one set of smarter clothing, particularly for high-end restaurants 
• Lightweight raincoat or poncho 
• Footwear that is comfortable for several hours walking around cities 
• Sandals or flip-flops 
• Toiletries 
• Anti-bacterial hand wash/gel 
• Sun hat 
• Sun glasses 
• Sun cream with a high level of protection 
• Lip balm 
• Ear plugs and eye mask 
• Small torch/flashlight
• Insect repellent 
• Phone 
• Electrical adaptors (see Electricity and adaptors section)
• Camera 
• Dry bags for phone and camera 
• Any medication you require and a prescription in case requested by customs officials 
• Small first aid kit 
• Reading material