Brazil Packing List (What to Pack for Brazil)

Brazil Packing Advice

Your travel plans could include street parties in Rio, sunning yourself on Copacabana or hiking the mountains of Chapada Diamantina.

No matter which of Brazil’s tourist attractions you visit, knowing what things to pack for Brazil can and will save you a lot of time and energy.

I recommend you try to pack for three extremes, and you’ll be good.

The last thing I’d want you to be doing is walking the tabletop mountains in flip-flops or paddling in the sea in your underwear. Not a good look!

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Traveling to Brazil what do I need?

This is the question you must ask ahead of time. Brazil’s weather in July can get pretty darn chilly especially if you’re in the south of the country.

With Brazil’s diverse geography, if you were to ask a local what to pack for Brazil in March, the answer may be different depending on where you go.

Three extremes to help you decide on what to carry to Brazil:

Always carry a decent pair of travel pants as they can help you to look more presentable while giving you some protection at the same time.

Other items to pack for Brazil

Now you’ve got some ideas for your Brazil packing list, let’s go over a few optional items to consider, while still keeping your luggage light and practical.

Here are some other ideas on what to pack for brazil:

Depending on where in Brazil you are, it can rain at any moment. Checking the seasons will give you an idea but I wouldn’t solely rely on the forecast.

If you’ll be camping out, carry some waterproof style clothing or a poncho like this one for keeping you dry. Then, if you are doing an overland trip through South America consider the Shiftpod as a solid basecamp option.

The main idea with these lists is to travel as light as possible–everything from your gadgets down to your shoes so you can move freely.

I always bring a high-quality toiletry case or even a compact travel waist bag for keeping my bathroom essentials organized and easy to carry.

Below are five things I like to travel with, whether I’m in Brazil or other countries in Latin America that, for me, always come in handy.

Brazil can be expensive

Just be aware that some things are expensive in Brazil.

In fact, most things are expensive in Brazil when you compare prices to the cost in other South American countries such as Colombia or Peru.

If want to try Brazilian fashion, you’ll find plenty of shops in most cities. In my experience, though, everyday items in Rio de Janeiro were even pricier than those in Buenos Aires, which is already known for being expensive.

Items to buy once in Brazil

Here’s a shortlist of items that you’ll need if you’re backpacking Brazil, but I recommend you buy them once you arrive for two reasons.

To save space on the road and you may see them cheaper in Brazil if you shop in the right places. They are found in abundance in most beach cities.

• Flip-flops – Buy Havainnas for around 30 reales.
• A Sarong – Buy one on the beach for around 25 reales.

Make sure you add these two items to your list of things to buy in Brazil, you’ll be making a good choice by buying them during your trip.

💡Smart Travel Tip
If you’re traveling to urban cities such as Brasília to see the best of Brazil’s architecture; it’s worth buying a local map to navigate with.

What do people wear in Brazil?

If you’re looking for new ideas on what to wear in Brazil, knowing what the locals wear might help you make a decision and help you blend in!

However, because of such a diverse climate and social class, I suggest you wait until you arrive to see what the locals are wearing.

It depends on many factors. For example, in Salvador, it’s normal to see Brazilans wearing shorts, a vest, and flip-flops, same for Rio, too.

The Ultimate Brazil Packing List

That sums up my Brazil packing list.

Traveling light is an art and can take years to master. When I travel, I carefully consider what’s essential to bring and what I can leave behind.

I hope my experience can save you time and help you travel lighter and more agile wherever you may be traveling to in Latin America.

See this list of cities to visit in Brazil for ideas on where to go while here.