Should we bring a shared suitcase or separate backpacks?

Separate backpacks. You'll be walking on cobblestones, climbing bus stairs, and dealing with theft risks. Two medium packs beat one giant one every time.

How do we handle laundry as a couple?

Coordinate your colors and wash together every 7-10 days. Hostels charge per load, not per person. Bring a shared laundry bag and portable line.

What electronics should we share vs. duplicate?

Share: laptop, camera, power bank, universal adapter. Duplicate: phone chargers, earbuds, e-readers. This balance keeps weight down while maintaining independence.

How much cash should we carry between us?

Keep $200-300 USD cash split between your bags, plus local currency. ATMs aren't everywhere, and cards don't work in small mountain towns.

How to Pack as a Couple for South America

Share heavy items like electronics and toiletries, pack one large backpack each (65-75L), and coordinate clothing colors for washing together. Bring layers for altitude changes and quick-dry fabrics for humid regions.

Choose your bags together. Each person gets one 65-75L backpack plus a small daypack. Avoid the temptation to share one huge bag - you'll need mobility when one person is sick or you split up briefly.
Divide shared items strategically. One person carries the laptop and camera gear, the other takes toiletries and first aid. Split charging cables between both bags so you're never stuck without power.
Coordinate your clothing colors. Stick to 2-3 color families (like navy, white, khaki) so you can wash clothes together and share items when needed. This cuts laundry time in half.
Pack for altitude and climate swings. You'll go from sea level beaches to 12,000-foot mountain towns. Each person needs: one warm jacket, one rain layer, hiking boots, sandals, and clothes you can layer up or strip down.
Bring backup cards and documents. Keep copies of both passports, extra debit cards, and emergency cash in separate bags. If one bag gets stolen or lost, you can still function as a couple.

Should we bring a shared suitcase or separate backpacks?: Separate backpacks. You'll be walking on cobblestones, climbing bus stairs, and dealing with theft risks. Two medium packs beat one giant one every time.
How do we handle laundry as a couple?: Coordinate your colors and wash together every 7-10 days. Hostels charge per load, not per person. Bring a shared laundry bag and portable line.
What electronics should we share vs. duplicate?: Share: laptop, camera, power bank, universal adapter. Duplicate: phone chargers, earbuds, e-readers. This balance keeps weight down while maintaining independence.
How much cash should we carry between us?: Keep $200-300 USD cash split between your bags, plus local currency. ATMs aren't everywhere, and cards don't work in small mountain towns.