Chile | Gardens, Parks, Glaciers, and the Sea with Pacific Horticulture

Supplementary Reading

Chilean Flora for Pacific Region Gardeners and Botanical Travelers by Dan Hinkley

Suggested Packing List

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

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities, but participants might wish to pack a slightly nicer outfit for dinners or other outings in Santiago and other cities, keeping in mind that locals tend to dress conservatively.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. If you prefer to pack light, note that many hotels offer laundry services at an additional cost.

Remember that seasons in the Southern Hemisphere are reversed from those of the Northern Hemisphere. Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day. Santiago experiences a mild, Mediterranean climate, with average highs in the 80s during the summer months (Dec-Feb) and in the 60s during the winter (Jun-Aug). The weather in Patagonia can be unpredictable, and the region is known for its strong winds. Average highs are in the 60s and lows in the 30s during summer. In winter, temperatures may get below freezing and snow is possible.

• A combination of short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts, suitable for layering under a sweatshirt and jacket as needed
• Moisture-wicking or thermal base layer
• Shorts and/or skirts
• Lightweight to medium-weight long pants, slacks, or jeans; quick-drying long pants
• Undergarments and socks
• Sleepwear
• Fleece, down, or synthetic-filled jacket/sweater
• 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: Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes or boots suitable for outdoor hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots with good ankle support may be appropriate for more active itineraries. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops, sandals, or slip-on tennis shoes to wear around the hotel.
• Water-resistant or waterproof rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
• Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter
• Shawl or scarf and waterproof or polar fleece gloves for cold weather

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. – If possible, avoid strong fragrances in consideration of your fellow travelers.
• 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—but not all—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
• Collapsible walking stick or trekking poles with rubber tip - Pack in your checked luggage.
• A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
• Money belt
• Plug adapter, voltage converter, and chargers for electronics