Our Essential Patagonia Packing List | What to Wear & What to Bring

Patagonia Packing List

Whether you’re an avid hiker or just starting out, the prospect of creating a Patagonia packing list can be stressful. In a single day in Patagonia, you can experience 80-degree temperatures, clear skies, flood level rains, and even brisk snowfall. Even in the dead of the Patagonian Summer (December – February), Patagonia weather can fluctuate drastically. While these factors are not enough to dismay visitors from the stunning landscapes all around the reserve, it is a good reminder to pack smartly. Read below for our essential week-long Patagonia packing list.


1. Outerwear

First on our Patagonia packing list is outerwear! When it comes to outerwear, layering is essential. With such fluctuations in weather and temperatures in Patagonia, you’ll want to have a variety of layers that you can easily shed or bundle up in as the day progresses. With the right combination of light layers and a day pack to store it all, you’ll be hiking with ease.

• Warm hat and gloves
• Sun hat
• Pairs of long underwear
• Leggings
• Raincoat/windbreaker
• Light jacket
• Winter/ski jacket
• Sweatshirt for evenings
• Sunglasses
• Water-resistant pants

2. Toiletries

Next on our Patagonia packing list is toiletries. From basic hygiene products to daily essentials to protect you from the harsh sun, here are the key items that will make your Patagonia tour enjoyable.

• Sun protection
• Lip balm
• Body lotion
• Shampoo and Conditioner bars (over liquids)
• 1 Microfiber towel – Camping only
• 100% Silk travel sheet – Camping only
• 1 Shower sandals – Camping only
• Clothing hand-wash set – Camping only

3. Casual Wear

Believe it or not, not everything worth-seeing in Patagonia requires a hike. Whether you’re touring the picturesque Alpine towns of Argentine Patagonia, visiting a local museum, or dining out at a high-end restaurant, you’ll want a few casual-wear options to get you through the day. Luckily, with Patagonia being an outdoorsy destination, many visitors stick to basic clothing that is multi-functional.

• Pair of jeans
• Dress shirt/blouse
• Dress/heels if wanting to go out
• Sneakers
• Shorts
• A week’s worth of underwear and socks
• T-shirts
• Long-sleeved shirts
• Cozy sweatpants

4. Hiking Equipment

Another packing item you’ll want to think about is equipment for your hiking or trekking! The terrain of Patagonia is incredibly diverse, from glaciers, river beds, steep climbs, and dry plateaus. Therefore, you’ll want proper gear that can aid you through any obstacle. However, keep in mind that many of the lodges provide equipment for guests.

• Trekking poles
• Waterproof, ankle-high hiking boots
• Boot chains – for icy ground
• 1 Day pack
• Rain cover for backpack
• 2 Water bottle/pack
• Pairs of wool socks
• Binoculars
• Durable hiking tent – Camping only
• Warm Sleeping bad – Camping only

5. Gadgets

Following hiking equipment, you might consider bringing some gadgets on your vacation. Whether you’re in need of navigating yourself out of a deserted forest or simply want to capture an amazing view, here are the recommended gadgets for any trip to Patagonia. Though, a GPS is not required as you’ll mostly be with guides who show you around the area.

• GPS
• Camera – even better if waterproof
• Extra lens for the camera
• A camera bag
• Universal adaptor

6. Miscellaneous Item on Your Patagonia Packing List

Last, you must consider a few miscellaneous items! Here are some items that we recommend stocking up on before entering the reserve. While most items can be found within the reserve, money in Patagonia can be more difficult to come by, with ATMs being more common in the larger towns. For the smoothest travels, plan ahead.

• Travel insurance
• Rental Car insurance
• Cash in local currency
• First Aid Kit
• Headlamp
• Headphones
• Large backpack – enough to fit a sleeping bag, clothes, equipment, and tent

More Tips on Your Patagonia Packing List

Finally, your essential packing list for Patagonia is complete! While some items may seem obvious, this compact list makes for an easy packing day. Now, all you need to do is check off each item. Of course, travelers should use their better judgment on their own needs as to what to pack. If you run cold, you may want to emphasize packing warmer clothes (and vice versa).

Overall, remember to enjoy the wonderful trip ahead and don’t stress. All absolute essentials can still be found in Patagonia. Packing ahead of time only makes for an easier journey ahead. If you’re looking for more tips on packing lists, contact one of our expert Travel Consultants!