How much extra clothing should I pack for kids?

Pack 50% more underwear and socks than normal trip length, plus 2 extra complete outfits per child. Kids get dirty faster in South America and laundry isn't always available daily.

Do I need special gear for the Amazon?

Bring long pants and long sleeves for evening bug protection, DEET-based insect repellent (20-30% concentration safe for kids over 2), and quick-dry clothing. Pack in dry bags if doing river trips.

What if my child gets altitude sickness?

Descend immediately if symptoms are severe. For mild symptoms, give children's pain reliever, encourage fluids, and rest. Symptoms usually improve within 24-48 hours. Coca tea helps adults but isn't recommended for children.

Should I pack baby formula or rely on buying locally?

Pack enough formula for the first few days plus emergency backup. Major cities have international brands available, but rural areas may not. Bring formula mixing supplies and extra bottles.

How to Pack for Family Travel in South America

Pack layers for dramatic climate changes, bring altitude sickness medication for kids, and pack twice as many wet wipes as you think you need. Focus on versatile clothing that works from Amazon humidity to Andean cold, plus extra underwear and socks for everyone.

Pack for extreme climate variations. Bring lightweight layers you can add or remove quickly. Pack a rain jacket for each family member, warm fleece or wool sweaters for altitude, and breathable cotton for lowlands. Temperature can drop 30°F in a single day when moving from coast to mountains.
Prepare for altitude with kids. Pack children's acetaminophen or ibuprofen for altitude headaches. Bring extra snacks - kids eat more at altitude. Pack lip balm and sunscreen SPF 50+ for thin mountain air. Consider packing coca tea bags for adults (legal in most South American countries).
Triple your usual hygiene supplies. Pack 3x more wet wipes than normal - you'll use them constantly. Bring hand sanitizer in 2oz bottles for each family member. Pack baby powder to prevent chafing in humid climates. Include anti-diarrheal medication for both adults and children.
Pack practical family gear. Bring a portable water filter or purification tablets. Pack a basic first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic, and thermometer. Include entertainment for long bus rides - coloring books, tablets with downloaded content, card games. Pack universal electrical adapters.
Organize with packing cubes by person. Give each family member their own packing cube color. Pack one complete outfit per person in your carry-on in case checked bags are delayed. Keep important documents in a waterproof pouch that one adult always carries.

How much extra clothing should I pack for kids?: Pack 50% more underwear and socks than normal trip length, plus 2 extra complete outfits per child. Kids get dirty faster in South America and laundry isn't always available daily.
Do I need special gear for the Amazon?: Bring long pants and long sleeves for evening bug protection, DEET-based insect repellent (20-30% concentration safe for kids over 2), and quick-dry clothing. Pack in dry bags if doing river trips.
What if my child gets altitude sickness?: Descend immediately if symptoms are severe. For mild symptoms, give children's pain reliever, encourage fluids, and rest. Symptoms usually improve within 24-48 hours. Coca tea helps adults but isn't recommended for children.
Should I pack baby formula or rely on buying locally?: Pack enough formula for the first few days plus emergency backup. Major cities have international brands available, but rural areas may not. Bring formula mixing supplies and extra bottles.