What if my backpack is too heavy?

Rule of thumb: pack should be 15-20% of your body weight maximum. If it's heavier, you packed too much. Leave stuff behind or ship it home.

Should I pack hiking boots?

Only if you're doing serious mountain trekking like Torres del Paine. Otherwise, sturdy walking shoes work for 90% of South America and take up less space.

How much cash should I carry?

Keep $200-300 USD in small bills hidden in different places. Many remote areas are cash-only, and ATMs can be scarce or broken.

Pack quick-dry clothes and do laundry every 5-7 days. Most hostels have washing facilities or cheap laundry services. Hand-wash underwear and socks in your room.

How to Pack a Backpack for a Month-Long Trip Through South America

Pack for three climate zones (coast, mountains, jungle) with 7 days of clothes, one warm layer, and essentials that fit in a 50-65L backpack. Roll everything, use packing cubes, and leave 20% space for souvenirs.

Choose the right backpack size. Get a 50-65L backpack with a good hip belt. Anything bigger and you'll overpack. Test it fully loaded at the store - it should feel manageable for 30 minutes of walking.
Pack for three climate zones. Coastal (warm, humid), mountains (cold nights, up to 4,000m elevation), and jungle (hot, wet, bugs). You need layers that work in 5°C to 35°C temperatures.
Limit clothes to 7 days max. 2 pairs hiking pants, 1 pair shorts, 5 t-shirts, 1 long-sleeve shirt, 7 pairs underwear, 7 pairs socks, 1 warm fleece or down jacket, 1 rain jacket, 1 pair sturdy walking shoes, 1 pair flip-flops.
Pack essential gear. Sleeping bag rated to 0°C, quick-dry towel, headlamp, power bank, universal adapter, first aid kit, water purification tablets, mosquito net if going to jungle areas.
Use the roll and stuff method. Roll all clothes tightly. Stuff socks and underwear inside shoes. Use packing cubes for easy organization. Put heavy items (shoes, toiletries) closest to your back.
Keep 20% space free. Don't pack to 100% capacity. You'll buy things, and overpacking makes everything harder to find and carry.

What if my backpack is too heavy?: Rule of thumb: pack should be 15-20% of your body weight maximum. If it's heavier, you packed too much. Leave stuff behind or ship it home.
Should I pack hiking boots?: Only if you're doing serious mountain trekking like Torres del Paine. Otherwise, sturdy walking shoes work for 90% of South America and take up less space.
How much cash should I carry?: Keep $200-300 USD in small bills hidden in different places. Many remote areas are cash-only, and ATMs can be scarce or broken.
What about laundry?: Pack quick-dry clothes and do laundry every 5-7 days. Most hostels have washing facilities or cheap laundry services. Hand-wash underwear and socks in your room.