How much should my backpack weigh?

Keep it under 20kg (44 lbs) when fully loaded. You'll be carrying it up hostel stairs, onto overnight buses, and through airports regularly. Most backpackers end up shipping stuff home after the first month.

Do I need a sleeping bag?

Bring a lightweight sleeping bag liner instead of a full bag. Most accommodations provide bedding, but the liner protects you from questionable sheets and adds warmth in cold highland areas.

Should I pack formal clothes?

One nice outfit maximum. Many upscale restaurants and clubs in major cities have dress codes, but you can also buy clothes locally if needed. Don't sacrifice pack space for maybe occasions.

How many shoes should I bring?

Three pairs maximum: hiking boots, walking shoes/sneakers, and flip-flops. Shoes are heavy and take up lots of space. Choose versatile options that work in multiple situations.

How to Pack for Backpacking South America

Pack for extreme climate variation from Patagonian cold to Amazon heat, prioritize quick-dry fabrics and layers, and keep your pack under 20kg. Focus on versatile pieces that work in both cities and remote areas across multiple countries.

Choose the right backpack size. Get a 50-65L backpack. Anything larger tempts overpacking. Look for external compression straps and a detachable daypack. Osprey Farpoint 55 or Gregory Baltoro 65 work well for most travelers.
Pack for temperature extremes. You'll hit freezing temperatures in Patagonia and 35°C+ heat in the Amazon. Pack a down jacket that compresses small, merino wool base layers, and quick-dry synthetic shirts. Skip cotton entirely.
Prioritize quick-dry fabrics. Everything should dry overnight. Merino wool, synthetic blends, and technical fabrics only. You'll be hand-washing clothes regularly, especially during long bus rides between countries.
Pack versatile layering pieces. One fleece or synthetic insulation layer, one rain jacket that doubles as wind protection, 2 base layers, 3 t-shirts, 1 long-sleeve shirt, 2 pairs of pants (one technical, one casual), 1 pair of shorts.
Choose multi-purpose footwear. Bring hiking boots for treks, sneakers for cities, and flip-flops for hostels and beaches. Skip dress shoes unless you plan serious nightlife in Buenos Aires or São Paulo.
Pack for altitude and sun. High-SPF sunscreen (hard to find in rural areas), sunglasses, wide-brim hat, and altitude sickness medication. The sun hits differently at 3,500m in Cusco.
Include border crossing essentials. Photocopies of passport and visas, small bills in USD for departure taxes, vaccination certificates, and travel insurance documents. Keep originals and copies in separate locations.

How much should my backpack weigh?: Keep it under 20kg (44 lbs) when fully loaded. You'll be carrying it up hostel stairs, onto overnight buses, and through airports regularly. Most backpackers end up shipping stuff home after the first month.
Do I need a sleeping bag?: Bring a lightweight sleeping bag liner instead of a full bag. Most accommodations provide bedding, but the liner protects you from questionable sheets and adds warmth in cold highland areas.
Should I pack formal clothes?: One nice outfit maximum. Many upscale restaurants and clubs in major cities have dress codes, but you can also buy clothes locally if needed. Don't sacrifice pack space for maybe occasions.
How many shoes should I bring?: Three pairs maximum: hiking boots, walking shoes/sneakers, and flip-flops. Shoes are heavy and take up lots of space. Choose versatile options that work in multiple situations.