​On the Importance of Packing
We’re constantly underestimating the importance of packing, there’s no denying that. And, it can be extremely challenging when coming to Argentina: from sub-zero temperatures at the glaciers to warm and humid in the waterfalls. We definitely have it all! It goes without saying that travelling light will provide you and your trip plenty of flexibility, so we thought we’d spare you the trouble and share some expert tips on how to pack like a pro.
| DOCUMENTS |
First things first, start by collecting all of your important documents and place them altogether so they can all be easily accessed at all times. A travel document organizer or a waterproof document bag is a good place to start.
• Passport: updated and valid throughout the length of your travel.
• Visa: there is no Visa required to enter Argentina, although Canadian and Australian citizens are required to pay a Reciprocity Fee. US citizens Reciprocity Fee is waived, as from March 2016. For more information, click here: http://cnyor.mrecic.gov.ar/en/content/reciprocity-fee-us-canadian-and-australian-citizens-online-payment
• Personal ID: many stores will require some sort of ID when paying Credit Card. Make sure you have one with you at all times, ideally one with picture.
• Frequent Flyer Card: most airlines are grouped and work in alliance with one another. So even if you have your miles collected at your local airline, you may be able to transfer the ones from Argentina on your same program. Definitely worth checking out!
• Cash and Credit Card: while Credit Card is widely accepted in Buenos Aires, when traveling to other cities this may not be the case. Make sure you either bring enough cash or check any Credit Card fees before withdrawing money from local ATMs.
• Health insurance: it is important to have the information on you, at all times.
• Travel insurance info
• Reservations and itineraries
• Booking/Tour printed information: while we are mostly used to checking everything on our phones, having a printed version of your itinerary or useful things such as addresses and important phone numbers can come in handy should your phone have no battery or restricted access to internet.
| ESSENTIALS |
Since you’re most likely catching the red eye to Buenos Aires, you will therefore feel more comfortable if you bring along the following items in your handbag:
• Earplugs, to block out any loud snorer and a sleep mask. Don’t let anyone deprive you from your beauty rest!
• Travel pillow, if you know what’s good for you in life
• Comfortable footwear, because who wants to sit for 10+ hours on high heels or fancy shoes
• Tablet, Notebook, E-reader or whatever your preferred tech item for entertainment is
• Mobile device and charger, there’s no such thing as having too much battery
• Light jacket, we all know how AC-obsessed most airlines can be
• Medicine, if taking any
• Small toiletry bag with tooth brush and tooth paste, eye-drops, aspirin, sanitizer, etc.
| CLOTHING |
Overall, lightweight layers are the secret to packing for opposite climates, so think of it in terms of layers that are worth investing in. The quantity per item will depend strictly on the duration of your stay.
• Jeans
• Cargo / tough pants
• Convertible pants. As nerdy as it might seem, you don't want to underestimate the power of shape-changing clothing
• Comfy pants / PJ bottoms
• Shorts
• Jumpers / hoodies / cardigans or a big jacket that's warm and packs flat or small
• T-shirts
• Long sleeve tops, at least one
• Tights or leggings. These are THE one small accessory worth throwing in your travel bag.
| FOOTWEAR |
• Flip-flops. Because who doesn’t need a flip-flop day while taking a holiday.
• Comfy sneakers suitable for long walks. If you’re planning some serious hiking, make sure you bring those bulky but oh-too-necessary hiking shoes.
• Fancy shoes, at least one pair, you never know when you will need them!
• Versatile shoes... you want to make sure whatever shoes you bring are suitable for multiple outfits.
| TRAVEL AND TECHNICAL GADGETS |
Travel accessories can go a long way, but before crossing off every item on the list think about the route you’re taking, because you’ll be able to buy some things along the way.
• Camera and lenses
• Memory Cards, bring a few with you
• Headphones
• World Travel Adapter
• Sunglasses
From the BA sophisticated lifestyle to the natural allure of the rainforest and the mountains, and pretty much everything in between, this list will help you pack what you need and leave what you don’t!
