17 Top South America Packing List Items for 2020 + What to Wear & NOT to bring

Updated on May 11, 2020 by Asher Fergusson

What to Pack for South America – 17 Essentials

1. Neck Wallet

2. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

3. Waterproof Phone Case

4. HERO Packing Cubes

5. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

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 its low cost and efficient.

View NordVPN.com Options ➜

6. Windproof Umbrella

7. Backpacking Pack

8. World Nomads Travel Insurance

9. Wool Clothing

10. International Power Adapter

11. Swimsuit

12. Walking or Hiking Shoes

13. Sleeping Bag Liner

14. Camera

15. First Aid Kit

16. Headlamp

17. Quick Dry Towel

Don’t forget these other items for a South America vacation:

What to wear in South America

What should WOMEN wear in South America? – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample women’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

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.

What should MEN wear in South America? – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

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 – September, October, November:

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.

FALL – March, April, May:

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.

What NOT to bring to South America:

1) DON’T PACK too much stuff: 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.

2) DON’T BRING extra toiletries: 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.

3) DON’T TAKE unnecessary valuables: 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.

4) DON’T PACK jeans: 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!

5) DON’T BRING anything white: 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.

6) DON’T TAKE multiple books: 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.

FAQs about traveling in South America

2. Which languages are spoken in South America?

3. What are the best, safest, and cheapest ways to get around South America?

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. Busses 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.

4. Do I need to get any vaccines before I go?