Step-by-Step Brazil in 7 days: Packing List for Brazil

April 26, 2013

Packing List for Brazil

Here are a few recommendations on items to pack (other than the obvious, clothes & toiletries) that we found essential for our trip to Brazil.

Non-Aerosol Bug Spray - We generously applied bug spray every day on our trip. Non-aerosol is best for packing in your checked luggage and aerosols are not allowed on the plane.
Sun block / Sunscreen 30 SPF or higher - We only spent 3 hours on the beach in Rio, but sun block was essential while walking around Brazil as the rays can be strong. Sun block is more expensive to purchase in Rio than Atlanta.
Bikini - Nobody wears a 1-piece in Brazil. You can always buy a bikini in Brazil.
Flip flops - Bring your own, or purchase flip flops for around R$20 a pair. Flip flops from Brazil make a nice souvenir as most of them say "Brasil" or "Ipanema" on them.
Hiking sandals - I found having hiking sandals (i.e. Teva) comfortable for all of the walking I did around Brazil. Most of the Brazilians walk around wearing flip flops (and not white athletic shoes), so the hiking sandals blended in.
Hand sanitizer - As Americans, we are obsessed with hand sanitation, bring your own as hand sanitizer is not quite as popular outside of the US.
Ponchos - You never know when a rain shower will pop-up in Rio. Also an essential if you are visiting Iguaçu Falls.
Electrical Adapter - You never know if the hotel / hostel / B&B you are staying in will have European or North American style plugs.
Wash cloths - You never know many towels you will be provided at your hotel / hostel / B&B, so it is best to bring at least 1 small or medium sized towel. Wash cloths are not popular in Brazil.
Money belt - As in any major city, there might be pickpockets. If you are carrying cash, it is best to put some away in a second location on your body (i.e. money belt).
Lock for your luggage bag(s) - We locked up our electronics / valuables in our suitcases while we were out of our hotel rooms. There were no safes in the places we stayed.
Tablet / Small Laptop - Do not expect your hotel to provide a business center for you. They provide Wi-Fi access, bring your own Internet capable device.