What to Pack for a South American Winter: Your Ultimate Packing Checklist

Planning a trip to South America during their winter? Since this continent is located in the southern hemisphere, winter here is from June to August. Whether you're returning to South America or visiting for the first time in the winter, packing can make all the difference in your vacation experience.

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You may wonder, “What should I pack for South America in the winter?” Though temperatures can range across the continent, it’s a good idea to pack thermal layers, a winter coat, waterproof boots, scarves, gloves, and versatile clothing for layering. Don’t forget to pack an eSIM for South America to help you stay connected amidst your delightful travels. 

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Of course, there are many other items you’ll want to consider bringing along to maximize your experience. We’ll also take a look at what not to bring on a South American winter vacation, like too many shoes, aerosol cans, fresh produce, and too many electronics. 

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The following guide is designed to help those preparing for a trip to South America ensure they have everything needed for a fun trip during the winter.

General Packing Tips

Before diving into specifics, make note of the length of your trip. Pack enough outfits for the duration of your time in the country, plus two additional days. Refer to this guide’s sections for a detailed packing list covering clothing, electronics, and more.

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The weather in South America from June to August varies depending on what area of the continent you’re visiting. In cooler climates like Patagonia, the Andes, Santiago and Buenos Aires, you’ll want thermal layers and sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots. In milder and tropical climates liek the Galápagos, Amazon, Northern Peru and Brazil, lightweight clothing and sandals are more appropriate.

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The best way to pack for a winter vacation in South America is to use compression bags to save space, layer clothes, and choose items you can mix and match for varied looks. To prepare for winter weather in South America, check the forecast for the area you’re visiting, pack layered clothing appropriate for the climate, and avoid bringing unnecessary electronics and excessive cash.

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The best travel gear for South American winter vacations includes a universal adapter, a portable charger, a safety whistle, and a portable luggage scale.

Clothing and Accessories

What to Wear

Depending on your destination, you may encounter sunnier conditions or sub-zero temperatures. If you’re headed to a country on the colder side, wear thermal base layers, sweaters, a warm coat, and accessories like scarves and hats to stay warm and stylish. Opt for versatile clothing items that mix and match easily. 

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If you’re visiting a warmer part of the continent, bring light, breathable layers, sandals and swimsuits to make the most of the warm weather. Must-have accessories for winter travel in South America include hats, a jacket, sunglasses and comfortable walking shoes.  

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Here is a comprehensive list of the clothing you’ll need to bring: 

• pajamas
• warm socks
• undergarments
• thermal base layers
• jeans/pants
• shorts or skirts
• long or short-sleeved shirts
• light or heavy sweaters
• insulated or light jacket
• rain jacket & umbrella
• athletic clothing
• jewelry
• swimsuit

Footwear and Accessories

The best shoes for winter travel in South America depend on your destination; for colder climates, pack waterproof boots and comfortable walking shoes to handle varying weather and terrains. For warmer climates, pack comfortable walking shoes and sandals or flip-flops. Don’t forget to bring polarized sunglasses as well as hats and scarves. 

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Here is a list of the footwear and accessories to consider packing: 

• winter/waterproof boots
• comfortable walking shoes
• sandals or flip-flops
• jewelry
• belt, scarf, gloves, hat(s)

Toiletries & Personal Care

Bringing your preferred toiletries ensures you have everything you need during your trip, although most hotels and resorts provide basic items (see below for items not to bring). Protect your skin during a winter vacation in South America by using hydrating moisturizers and lip balm to combat dry air, and sunscreen for sun exposure while outdoors. You should bring along toiletries that help you feel comfortable, but not so many that they weigh down your bag.

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Remember, whatever liquids you pack, make sure they comply with airline regulations.

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Here is a list of toiletries and personal care items to pack for your trip: 

• toothbrush, toothpaste & floss
• shampoo, conditioner, body wash
• deodorant
• face wash & moisturizer
• hairbrush or comb
• hair accessories
• tweezers & nail clippers
• wet wipes or body wipes
• perfume or cologne
• razor & shaving cream
• makeup & makeup remover
• cotton swabs & cotton balls
• feminine hygiene products
• lip balm
• hand cream & sunscreen
• ear plugs & eye mask
• contacts & contact solution
• pack of tissues
• insect repellent

Health & Medications

Ensuring you’re covered health-wise means bringing prescription medications, a travel first-aid kit, and any necessary over-the-counter medications. For any prescription medications, ensure you bring along copies of your prescription information. Preparing a travel-first-aid kit is easy: include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, OTC pain relievers, and any personal necessities. Purchasing travel insurance covers any unforeseen medical emergencies and is often a good idea. 

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Additionally, check the CDC website for recommended vaccinations based on your destination. Before you travel, think about packing the following items: 

• prescription medications with prescription copies
• travel first-aid kit
• OTC pain medication
• motion sickness tablets
• antacids or digestive enzymes
• cold & flu pills
• vitamins or supplements
• required vaccinations or health forms
• electrolyte packets

Electronics

The best gadgets to take to South America in the winter are a portable charger, universal power adapter, and a camera or GoPro. If you’re headed to Colombia, a Colombia eSIM will ensure you’re connected throughout your journey.

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If you’re traveling to South America from another continent, a universal travel adapter is necessary to charge devices due to the different plug types and voltages in South America.

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Here is a list of electronics you should pack for your trip to South America in the winter: 

• universal power adapter
• portable battery pack
• GigSky eSIM South America plan
• chargers
• earphones or noise-cancelling headphones
• e-reader or tablet
• cellphone
• camera, lenses & batteries
• GoPro
• straightener or curling iron

GigSky eSIM South America Plans

When preparing to travel overseas, don’t forget to plan on how to stay connected! Though there are many eSIM companies out there, GigSky is one of the few that offers secure, affordable, flexible and comprehensive packages for virtual SIM cards South America. All new customers receive a free eSIM just for signing up! No credit card required. 

Travel Documents

Essential documents like your passport, valid ID, and airline tickets are necessary for travel – and should be no-brainers. There are other travel documents that are helpful to have, like copies of your IDs. Also, make sure your passport isn’t set to expire within six months of your trip; some countries will deny entry if a passport is too close to its expiration date. 

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Here is a list of the documents you should pack for your South American winter vacation: 

• passport
• visas (if required)
• valid ID/driver's license
• copies of passport & IDs
• boarding passes
• travel insurance
• medical documentation
• debit/credit cards & cash
• travel itinerary & confirmation emails
• vaccination records (if required)
• travel guidebook or offline maps

Vacation Essentials

Whether you plan to hike through spectacular scenery, visit cultural city centers or spend time in an art musem, you’ll want to be prepared. Typical gear that’s good to bring on a South American vacation in the winter is a reusable shopping bag, safety whistle and polarized sunglasses. A backpack is handy for carrying essentials during your daily travels. Remember, where you plan to visit will determine what items you need to bring.

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Here’s a list of vacation essentials to pack for your South American adventures: 

• backpack or purse
• travel locks for bags
• water bottle
• portable charging cable
• reusable shopping bag
• travel umbrella or compact rain poncho
• handkerchief
• polarized sunglasses
• compression bags
• travel-sized laundry detergent
• travel towel
• book or other reading material
• pen
• travel pillow & blanket
• wet bags/ zip-top bags
• portable luggage scale

Winter Sports Items

For many, visiting South America in the winter promises the opportunity to spend time on the slopes, skiing or snowboarding. In this case, extra gear is required to ensure a fun and safe trip! If you’re wondering how to stay warm while skiing or snowboarding in South America, make sure to layer thermal wear under sweaters, invest in a high-quality coat, and use accessories like gloves and hats.

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Here’s a list of winter sports essentials to pack for your South American adventure: 

• skis/snowboard, poles, boots
• gear travel bag
• ski socks
• base layers
• ski pants
• ski jacket
• hat/helmet
• goggles 
• gloves/mittens
• sunscreen, ski face mask
• skiing backpack

What to Avoid Packing for a South American Winter Vacation

Now that we’ve covered what to pack on a trip to South America in the winter, let’s dive into ways you can maximize space in your luggage and ensure you’re only bringing along what you actually need. While people often ask what to pack, they usually don’t ask, “What should I not bring on a South American vacation?”

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A few of these items make you a target for theft – like bringing too many valuables. So, reduce your risk and leave these items safely at home. Other items are likely provided by the hotel or resort – like hair dryers and basic toiletries – so save yourself space in your bags and skip bringing them along. 

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Here’s a list of what not to pack for a vacation in South America in the winter: 

• too many shoes
• clothing unsuitable for the climate
• formal attire
• heavy, oversized suitcases
• excessive accessories
• high-heeled shoes
• hair dryer
• too many or full-sized toiletries
• aerosol cans
• large or bulky books
• too many jeans or pants
• uncomfortable clothing
• expensive jewelry or valuables
• weapons or personal self-defense items
• illegal substances
• fresh fruits or agricultural products
• prescription medications without documentation
• drones
• laptop (unless you truly need it)

Special Considerations

In addition to packing all of the above items (and avoiding the most recent list), you may have some special considerations for you and your travel companions. If you’re traveling with kids, include items like kids' entertainment, snacks, and essential baby supplies when packing for your South American vacation. If you’re wondering how to physically pack for a South American trip with kids, we suggest prioritizing comfort and convenience with easy-to-pack and quick-access items.

Conclusion

Winter in South America is a fun season that varies in temperature and activities, based on your destination. Once your trip is planned, it’s time to pack your bags. By following this comprehensive packing guide, you will be well-equipped to enjoy a stress-free and enjoyable South American winter vacation.

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Make sure to download our FREE South American Winter Vacation Packing Checklist. It includes all of the items on this list plus a special discount on GigSky eSIM data plans! Download it today and get packing. Then, download the GigSky app and purchase your data plan for your trip. 

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Happy travels!