You’ve got your plane tickets, booked your tours, and figured out how you’re getting picked up at the airport. Now what are you going to pack for your luxury South America trip?
First of all, there’s a lot of weather variety on the continent, but more as you head south or head higher. Argentina and Chile have four distinct seasons and it gets so cold in the Patagonia region that the tourism industry shuts down for a few months during their winter. In Guyana and the northern coast of Brazil though, it’s hot all the time.
Ecuador is on the equator, but because of the cold Pacific currents, its beaches have a distinct high and low season. When you head into the highlands of the Andes Mountains, you could run into snow unless you’re in Colombia. Once you’ve got the weather sorted out, here are some items to consider for your luxury vacation in South America.
Quality Luggage That Stands Out
Wherever you’re headed for your luxury South America trip, you need a suitcase that’s rugged and made well. If you are going to mostly be moving around between hotels and shuttles, then you can bring a 4-wheel spinner suitcase. Otherwise, if you’ll be navigating uneven surfaces, including cobblestones and steps, something built for those situations might serve you better.
If you can dispense with the wheels altogether, you can travel with something like Von Baer Men’s Travel Bags that are leather and will create an impression. They make handcrafted weekender bags, garment bags, laptop backpacks, and carry-on suitcases that are the opposite of the cheap and flimsy items you see in a department store. The kind of luggage you hand down to the next generation.
For a more conventional hard shell look, years later I’m still using the Bric’s Bellagio carry-on suitcase that’s Italian made and stylish. I have also been happy with the Level8 aluminum suitcase that I reviewed a couple of years ago.
If you’re going to need to roll over cobblestones or flagstones though, which you might have to do in Cusco or Cartagena, then a 2-wheel suitcase with large inline skate wheels is a much better bet. Go for one that has a lifetime warranty so you know it will hold up. The three best brands for that are Briggs & Riley, Osprey and Eagle Creek. Some TravelPro bags too, but not all.
Versatile Travel Clothing
If you’ll mainly be in cities in South America, then you can pack whatever is climate appropriate. People do still dress up in these places, so pack accordingly if you’re headed to luxury hotels and the Michelin-starred restaurants of Lima.
If it’s an adventure trip though, that requires more careful planning. If you’re in Patagonia, the Atacama Desert, or mainland Ecuador, you might experience four seasons in one day, especially if you’ll be moving between different altitudes. In the Galapagos islands, you might deal with rain, fog, or high winds depending on the month.
For any of these situations, you’ll want some kind of waterproof jacket or shell that has a built-in membrane made by the likes of Gore-tex or Polartec. Other companies like Columbia Sportswear have their own proprietary version. These membranes still let your sweat evaporate on a hike or on ski runs, but remember that these membranes don’t work well in climates where your body temperature and the air temperature are the same, like in the Amazon jungle.
Then if there’s a chance you’ll encounter big temperature swings, like on the Inca Trail of Peru, you’ll want to have a base layer or two that’s preferably merino wool, some kind of fleece, and good hiking pants. Waterproof or at least water-resistant pants are handy if it’s anywhere close to rainy season or you’ll be in Patagonia. Ideally you want a few quick-dry items that can be sink-washed if absolutely necessary, especially shirts. Sometimes the hotel laundry turnaround time is longer than you have available.
The sun can be intense, especially at beaches or at high altitude, so you probably want polarized sunglasses, a sun hat, and your favorite sunscreen brand. I’m a fan of Tilley hats and have worn a few from Outdoor Research. You can find a good selection at online retailers like Backcountry and REI.
Good Footwear for Your Active Feet
No matter where you go in South America, you’ll probably be doing a good bit of walking. The continent is filled with outdoor wonders like Machu Picchu, Iguazu Falls, fortified Cartagena, the Atacama Desert, and the UNESCO World Heritage cities of Cusco and Quito. Then you’ve got vineyards to explore, hiking trails, and the long walkways along the beaches in Rio.
For the mountains you want quality hiking boots or shoes, for the cities good sneakers or walking shoes. This is the worst category to skimp on because you’ll be on your feet so much. Over my three decades of travel, I’ve had good experiences with Lowa, Ecco, Oboz, Keen, and Merrill, then I gravitate to New Balance or Skechers for sneakers because they make wide versions.
You also want to invest in good socks, pairs that have extra cushioning and are constructed well. My favorite brand is Darn Tough Vermont because they really live up to their name, but there are plenty of other quality sock brands available when you search online or head to your local outfitter store.
Don’t Forget the Daypack
When you’re out sightseeing or hiking, you’ll probably want some kind of daypack, whether it’s a cross-body bag, a shoulder tote, or a backpack. If you’re not already carrying one on the plane with you, several companies made versions that stuff down into a small pouch for packing, then they expand on the other end when you need them.
These bags can be good for shopping needs as well. Countries and cities are continually moving toward the elimination of single-use plastic shopping bags, especially in environmentally sensitive areas, so you need to bring along your own. (Speaking of the environment, a Steripenm Grayl, or other water purifier can cut down on the throwaway plastic bottles too.)
If you’re worried about theft, look into Pacsafe bags because they’re designed to ward off potential robbers. They have intentionally difficult zippers and clasps, plus slash-proof straps and exteriors so nobody can do a snatch and grab.
Then before you head out the door with that daypack or get ready for your flight, remember what will make you comfortable in transit: eye mask, earbuds, book or kindle, water bottle, snacks? Have fun in South America!
