How much should my backpack weigh?

Keep it under 20% of your body weight, ideally 12-15kg (26-33 lbs) total. You'll be carrying it up hostel stairs and onto buses regularly.

Should I bring a sleeping bag?

Bring a lightweight sleeping bag liner instead. Most accommodations provide bedding, but liners help with cleanliness and add warmth in cold mountain hostels.

What electronics should I pack?

Bring unlocked smartphone, universal adapter, portable charger, and basic camera. Skip the laptop unless you're working remotely - internet cafes are common for occasional computer needs.

How do I handle laundry for months of travel?

Pack 7-10 days of clothes maximum and wash weekly. Bring concentrated detergent packets, a sink stopper, and clothesline. Many hostels have washing facilities for $2-5.

How to Pack for Long-Term Travel in South America

Pack for multiple climates with layerable clothing, bring a durable backpack (60-70L), and prioritize versatile items you can wash easily. Plan for everything from Amazon humidity to Andean cold, plus frequent bus travel and occasional hand-washing of clothes.

Choose your main bag. Get a 60-70L backpack with good suspension and lockable zippers. Osprey Farpoint/Fairview or Gregory Paragon work well. Avoid wheeled luggage - you'll be on buses, boats, and uneven surfaces constantly.
Pack for three climate zones. Bring layers for hot/humid coast and Amazon (30-35°C), temperate cities (15-25°C), and cold mountains (0-10°C). Pack 2-3 base layers, 1-2 insulating layers, and 1 waterproof shell.
Choose quick-dry fabrics. Bring merino wool or synthetic blend clothing that dries in 2-4 hours. You'll hand-wash regularly and laundromats aren't always available. Pack 7-10 days of underwear and socks maximum.
Include altitude and outdoor gear. Pack a warm hat and gloves for altitude (Cusco, La Paz, Quito sit at 3,000m+). Bring broken-in hiking boots, trekking poles if you plan multi-day hikes, and a headlamp for power outages.
Prepare for long bus journeys. Pack an inflatable pillow, eye mask, earplugs, and warm layer for overnight buses. Bus air conditioning runs cold. Bring snacks and water bottle - food stops are irregular.
Pack health and safety essentials. Bring DEET insect repellent (25-30%), water purification tablets, basic first aid kit, and any prescription medications plus extras. Include altitude sickness medication if visiting high-elevation areas.

How much should my backpack weigh?: Keep it under 20% of your body weight, ideally 12-15kg (26-33 lbs) total. You'll be carrying it up hostel stairs and onto buses regularly.
Should I bring a sleeping bag?: Bring a lightweight sleeping bag liner instead. Most accommodations provide bedding, but liners help with cleanliness and add warmth in cold mountain hostels.
What electronics should I pack?: Bring unlocked smartphone, universal adapter, portable charger, and basic camera. Skip the laptop unless you're working remotely - internet cafes are common for occasional computer needs.
How do I handle laundry for months of travel?: Pack 7-10 days of clothes maximum and wash weekly. Bring concentrated detergent packets, a sink stopper, and clothesline. Many hostels have washing facilities for $2-5.