14 Best South America Travel Essentials

With 12 countries—five of them megadiverse—South America is home to stunning natural landscapes, charming small towns, and thriving modern cities. From the Andes to the Amazon, and from the Caribbean coast to the southern tip near Antarctica, the continent’s dramatic geography mirrors its cultural richness. But all that variety makes it especially tricky to pack for.

As a Colombian-American writer based in Bogotá part-time, I see tourists make the same packing mistakes again and again. Of course, what you bring depends on your itinerary, but there are some things you definitely shouldn’t pack. Here are the common missteps that’ll make you stick out (or miserable), plus what to bring instead for a smoother trip.

Don’t Pack: Shoes That Only Work for One Type of Climate

Pack Instead: Versatile Walking Shoes 

Adidas Watershoes Slides

Sandals might feel like the easy choice, but in many South American cities—like Santiago—they’ll instantly mark you as a tourist. Locals tend to favor more polished footwear, even in warm weather. These Adidas sneakers are a smart pick: they’re lightweight, comfortable, and versatile enough for city walks, countryside adventures, or even nights out. Plus, they pair well with outfits in both hot and cool climates and don’t take up much suitcase space. If you’re only packing one pair, make it this one.

Don’t Pack: Sweatpants

Pack Instead: Comfortable Loose Pants

Funyyzo Wide-leg Pants

Sweatpants aren’t the norm in most South American cities—unless you’re exercising or pulling off a trendy set in places like Medellín. Otherwise, they’re bulky to pack and scream tourist. A better option? These lightweight, loose-fitting pants from Funyyzo. They’re comfy enough for long travel days but polished enough for city strolls or dinner out. Plus, they won’t take up much space in your bag.

Don’t Pack: A Standalone Water Filter

Pack Instead: A Useful Filter Water Bottle

Lifestraw Go Series Water Filter Bottle

While some parts of South America have safe tap water, it’s smart to play it safe with a filtered water bottle. My Lifestraw bottle has filtered water from streams, hotel sinks, and rural spots without fail. Though it takes a bit of space, it’s worth it for peace of mind, saving money, and cutting plastic waste, especially where recycling is limited. If a liter feels too bulky, there’s a smaller 22-ounce option too.

Don’t Pack: Athleisure Tops

Pack Instead: Classic Tees

Miholl Short-sleeve V-neck Shirt

Wearing overly casual athleisure (think leggings, bike shorts, or exercise tops) outside workouts is a common tourist giveaway. Unless you’re going on a hike, skip those. Instead, stick to classic tees like these Miholl V-necks—comfortable, versatile, and worn everywhere. They work for almost any weather and keep you blending in while traveling. A simple travel essential.

Don’t Pack: A Back-Facing Daypack

Pack Instead: A Cross-Body Fanny Pack 

Maxtop Large Crossbody Fanny Pack

Pickpocketing is common in many South American cities, especially on public transit and crowded streets. Skip backpacks and keep your essentials close with a crossbody fanny pack like this Maxtop style. Wearing your bag in front makes you a less obvious target. If you need more space, consider an anti-theft backpack designed to deter thieves. Always stay alert: keep bags front-facing, avoid pocketing valuables, and limit phone use in public.

Don’t Pack: An Overstuffed Bag

Pack Instead: Space-saving Compression Bags

The Chestnut Store Storage Bags

My favorite packing trick? These roll-up compression bags. They shrink clothes down without needing a vacuum—just roll the air out by hand. I pack them flat inside my cubes on the way there, then use them on the way home to make space for souvenirs. Every South American country has incredible artisan goods, so odds are you’ll return with more than you brought. These help you do it without paying for an extra bag.

Don’t Pack: A Heavy Checked Bag

Pack Instead: A Roomy Carry-On

Travelpro Maxlite Air Hardside Carry-on

I’m all about carry-ons for trips under three months—lugging heavy bags through South America’s cobblestones, buses, and boats is a nightmare. This Travelpro Maxlite Air Carry-on is roomy yet lightweight and tough enough to handle everything from steep hills in small towns to bumpy bus rides. After two months using it in Europe and countless trips across Colombia, it’s my go-to for multi-destination travel. Durable, practical, and easy to maneuver—highly recommended.

Don’t Pack: Clothes for Hot Weather Only

Pack Instead: A Lightweight Packable Jacket

Amazon Essential’s Packable Puffer Jacket

One of the biggest mistakes I see travelers make in South America? Packing only for warm weather. But climates here shift drastically depending on elevation and season—Bogotá hovers in the 50s year-round, and places like Cuzco can go from sunny days to freezing nights. This lightweight puffer packs down small but adds just enough warmth for cooler temps. I always bring one (plus a thermal shirt) to stay prepared without overstuffing my bag.

Don’t Pack: Cargo Pants or Shorts

Pack Instead: Classic Jeans 

Levi’s 501 Original Fit Jeans 

Cargo shorts might fly in outdoor settings, but in South American cities—especially capital ones—they’re a dead giveaway you’re a tourist. Locals tend to dress more polished, even in beach towns. A classic pair of Levi’s 501s works just about anywhere and will help you blend in much better. They’re durable, versatile, and easy to dress up or down depending on the setting.

Don’t Pack: A Single Plug Adapter

Pack Instead: A Universal Plug Adapter

Unidapt Universal Travel Adapter

Plug types vary widely across South America—Brazil alone has multiple standards depending on the state. Buying separate adapters for each can be frustrating. A universal adapter like this Uniadapt model covers all major plug types, making it a smart investment for years and multiple trips. Mine lasted nearly a decade before breaking, proving its lasting value.

Don’t Pack: An Umbrella That Only Protects You From Rain

Pack Instead: A Compact UV Umbrella 

Sy Compact Travel Umbrella

Rainy seasons near the Equator can hit hard and fast, making a compact umbrella essential. This travel umbrella stands out with an extra UV-blocking layer, shielding you from both rain and harsh sun. Lightweight and portable, it’s a must-have for unpredictable weather—and perfect for creating instant shade and cooling down on sunny days. If you’re traveling in the wet season, pair it with a packable rain poncho for full protection.

Don’t Pack: Only Facial Sunscreen

Pack Instead: Reef-Safe Body Sunscreen

Thrive Reef Safe SPF 50 Sunscreen

Sunburn isn’t just a beach problem—UV rays intensify at high altitudes, making mountain sun protection crucial. Don’t skip facial and body sunscreen to avoid burns and premature wrinkles. Thrive’s reef-safe SPF 50 mineral formula offers strong protection with minimal white cast, perfect for South America’s varied climates—from snowy peaks to tropical beaches. Wherever your trip takes you, you’ll be covered.

Don’t Pack: A Single Wallet

Pack Instead: A Coin Purse

Hibate Leather Coin Purse

After visiting 45+ countries, I always travel with two wallets to avoid total loss if pickpocketed. I split cards and cash between them—this strategy saved me in Panama when I lost a coin purse but still had backup funds. I keep cash in this compact leather Hibate coin purse, which fits perfectly in my crossbody fanny pack. When traveling in South America (or anywhere), a little extra caution goes a long way.

Don’t Pack: A Bulky Beach Towel

Pack Instead: A Microfiber Towel

Rainleaf Microfiber Towel

For over a decade, my Rainleaf microfiber towels have been travel essentials. Lightweight and compact, they dry fast and pack small. The large towel is perfect for beach days or water excursions, and a quick shake easily removes sand, great for keeping rental cars clean. Even if your hotel supplies towels, these come in handy for South America’s waterfalls, hot springs, rafting, and snorkeling adventures.

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