Exploring Patagonia | An Argentina Adventure

Packing Recommendations

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

You may find many of the items below in our Gear Store.

Clothing

Argentina stretches more than 2,200 miles from north to south, and its altitude ranges from the high Andes to the Atlantic coast; as a result, the climate varies dramatically within the country. Below are some general packing suggestions that can be adjusted based on time of year and personal preferences. Remember that seasons in the Southern Hemisphere are reversed from those of the Northern Hemisphere.

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two for certain activities like dinners out or tango shows. Be aware that locals tend to dress somewhat conservatively, and porteños (residents of Buenos Aires) in particular are known for being fashion-conscious.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. Clothing that can be worn in layers is recommended. Note that the wind in Patagonia can be extremely strong, especially in the summer.

• A combination of short- and long-sleeved shirts that can be worn in layers
• A combination of light- and medium-weight long pants or trousers
• Shorts/skirts: Patagonia has cool weather year-round, but you may wish to pack a pair of shorts or a skirt for Buenos Aires, which can be quite hot in the summer
• Jackets: Pack clothing that can be worn in layers and include a polar fiber or down jacket as well as a pair of gloves. Depending on time of year, a sweater, vest, and down jacket may be needed for cool nights or at higher elevations.
• Underclothing, socks, and sleepwear: Bring some thin, synthetic socks (liner socks), heavy woolen socks, and a few pairs of thermal underwear (polypropylene or silk) for the hikes. Underwear, socks, and nightwear should be lightweight and designed to dry quickly. Warm hiking socks (e.g. Smartwool or similar) are suggested.
• Headgear: Include a hat (preferably with a wide brim) for sun protection. A tie under the chin is helpful in case of windy conditions. Beanie hats are excellent for windy conditions.
• Bathing suit: Pools are available at some hotels.
• Shoes: Bring a pair of broken-in leather/waterproof material trekking boots with good ankle support, and perhaps a pair of walking shoes for cities/non-field wear. Shoes should be comfortable enough to wear all day. You may also want to pack a pair of sport strap-sandals (e.g. Teva or Keen), as well as a pair of flip-flops or slip-on shoes for around your hotel.
• Rain jacket or poncho

Personal Toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.

• Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc.
• Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
• Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap. Most hotel rooms provide a hair dryer, but you may wish to bring one from home.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Razor
• Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
• Personal hygiene products
• Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin
• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
• A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

Miscellaneous

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

• Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
• Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
• Money – ATM/credit card, traveler's checks, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
• Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
• Sunglasses with strap
• Small day pack for hikes and excursions
• Flashlight and/or head lamp
• Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
• A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
• Binoculars with lens cleaner
• Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
• Reusable water bottle
• Non-perishable snacks
• Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage
• Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
• Notepad or travel journal and pen
• Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
• Trekking poles or collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
• A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
• Money belt
• Converter, plug adapter, and chargers for electronics