Should we pack formal clothes for South America?

One nicer outfit each is enough. South Americans dress well for going out, but you're not expected to pack suits or formal dresses. A button-down shirt and clean jeans works for most situations.

How do we handle laundry as a couple?

Most hostels and guesthouses have laundry service for $3-5 per load. You can combine your clothes in one load to save money. Pack enough underwear and socks for 7-10 days between washes.

What if we have very different packing styles?

Set ground rules before you leave. Agree on bag sizes, shared items, and weight limits. The overpacker gets to carry their own extra weight. Make a shared packing list and stick to it.

Should we bring camping gear?

Only if you're specifically planning multi-day treks like the Inca Trail. Most travelers rent gear locally for specific hikes. Carrying tents and sleeping bags for months isn't worth it for occasional use.

How to Pack as a Couple for South America

Pack one large backpack each (50-65L) with shared items like toiletries and electronics to save space. Focus on layering pieces that work from beaches to mountains, and coordinate who brings what essentials like phone chargers and first aid supplies.

Choose your bags. Each person gets one 50-65L backpack as carry-on size won't work for extended South America travel. Add one small daypack between you for day trips. Avoid rolling suitcases unless you're only hitting major cities.
Divide shared essentials. One person carries toiletries and first aid, the other handles electronics and chargers. Both should have backup phone chargers and any prescription medications. Write down what each person is responsible for.
Plan your climate strategy. You'll hit everything from Amazon humidity to Patagonian cold. Each person packs 2-3 base layers, one insulating layer, one rain jacket, and one warm jacket. Coordinate colors so you can share outer layers if needed.
Pack coordinated clothing. Stick to 2-3 colors max between both of you so everything mixes and matches. Pack 7 days worth of underwear and socks each, 4-5 shirts, 2 pairs pants, 1 pair shorts, 1 dress or nicer shirt for going out.
Handle shoes strategically. Each person brings hiking boots, sandals, and one pair of casual shoes. Wear your heaviest shoes when traveling. If one of you has larger feet, that person can pack an extra pair of flip-flops to share.
Split country-specific items. One person handles altitude sickness medication and water purification tablets. The other takes insect repellent and sunscreen. Both should have basic Spanish phrasebooks or apps downloaded offline.

Should we pack formal clothes for South America?: One nicer outfit each is enough. South Americans dress well for going out, but you're not expected to pack suits or formal dresses. A button-down shirt and clean jeans works for most situations.
How do we handle laundry as a couple?: Most hostels and guesthouses have laundry service for $3-5 per load. You can combine your clothes in one load to save money. Pack enough underwear and socks for 7-10 days between washes.
What if we have very different packing styles?: Set ground rules before you leave. Agree on bag sizes, shared items, and weight limits. The overpacker gets to carry their own extra weight. Make a shared packing list and stick to it.
Should we bring camping gear?: Only if you're specifically planning multi-day treks like the Inca Trail. Most travelers rent gear locally for specific hikes. Carrying tents and sleeping bags for months isn't worth it for occasional use.