General Style Tips
- What you pack really does depend on whether you are spending time in Buenos Aires or the countryside. There is so much to do in Argentina from skiing to riding gaucho style to beaches, that as much as anything else you need to pack for the area and the activities you plan to enjoy.
- Buenos Aires is cosmopolitan with some chic restaurants and people tend to dress more elegantly – smart, fitted clothing and smart shoes will help you feel at ease and fit in.
- If you don't want to scream ‘tourist' then avoid wearing shorts around the city of Buenos Aires, no matter how hot it gets.
- The key is neat and sleek, and neutral colors are best.
- It can be cool in the evening so pack a pashmina or light sweater.
- Ensure you bring a versatile travel jacket. We love the SCOTTeVEST travel jacket because it has over 23 pockets, removable sleeves and RFID protection.
- Wednesdays are a popular after-office party time and dress is neat and smart.
- Outside of Buenos Aires, dress is casual; wear comfortable layers.
- light wool is a good choice to wear against your skin as it naturally helps to regulate your body temperature. It keeps you warm in the cold, wicks away moisture when it's hot, and doesn't retain odours – even after prolonged wear.
- We like Thorlos hiking socks too – they have options designed to keep your feet dry and comfortable in all climates.
- Wear plenty of sunscreen (we love the Riemann P20 range for 10 hour protection), sunglasses and a sunhat.
- Be mindful of local sensibilities around the Falkland Islands, and don't wear anything overtly British such as sports team shirts.
What Shoes To Pack
- Your exploration of the stunning natural wonders of this country is likely to involve a good deal of walking, so make sure you have comfortable, lightweight shoes (we love Hotter shoes, for a range of styles which are comfy too).
- The city nightlife is amazing and many places won't let you in wearing tennis shoes or sneakers so pack some smart shoes or killer heels.
Clothing Tips for Women
- A few well-chosen pieces of costume jewelry will transform any outfit.
- And a pashmina is a versatile piece that will dress up any outfit too, plus keep you warm in a chilly breeze or cover you for modesty.
- Avoid short skirts and revealing tops, and in the main it's best to stick to more neutral colors.
- If you are in Argentina on business, pack a trouser suit or knee-length skirt-suit.
Clothing Tips for Men
- If you're looking for versatile and stylish casual wear, try the Madda Fella range of shirts, shorts and polos.
- For business, pack a normal business suit, shirt and tie.
Pack for the Weather
- The winter in the South during May, June, July, August, September and October is cooler – so layer up, and take a warmer coat or fleece and shoes or boots.
- The north is hot and humid with heavy rain through December, January and February, when a lightweight raincoat or travel umbrella would come in handy.
- We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂 Download for iPad/iPhone or Android
Regions of Argentina
- Once you are outside of Buenos Aires, you really need to be sure you take everything you need including sunscreen, insect/mosquito repellent, extra batteries, adapter plugs and converters for electrical appliances (or pack a solar powered charger to cut down on plugs and cables). As laundry facilities may be few and far between on your travels, pack a small supply of detergent for hand laundry too.
- If you plan on visiting Iguazu Falls and view from the platform it is good to wear pumps, sneakers or good walking shoes – it is not cold but a very lightweight raincoat is a good idea as with all the vapour you will get wet. A small travel umbrella will also be useful – particularly when you want to take photos, or you may like to take a waterproof phone case. During December, January, February and March the falls will be at their fullest.
Other Things To Pack
- Don’t drink or even brush your teeth in tap water. Consider taking a LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle.
- A bag or soft-sided rucksack is a more practical option than hard cases when traveling around the country, and using packing cubes can help to keep your belongings tidy whilst compressing the volume too.
- Combine your bag with a fold away day sack that will carry your essentials on day trips.
- Look after your mobile phone with a phone bunjee – it protects against loss, theft and damage and is especially useful in busy cities or when trekking.
- A microfiber travel towel is another great item to pack – these are designed specifically for trekking: they fold really small so you can accommodate a larger size and they dry really quickly too.
- To use electrical gadgets you may need a travel adapter plug, and also a step down voltage converter if your devices are not designed for the local voltage (220V).
- Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home! Leather goods are very popular, you'll find espadrilles everywhere, and of course wine is a great buy too – just remember any liquids will need to be packed in your hold luggage.