Patagonia Packing Guide

Plan to dress in layers

The weather in Patagonia can be very unpredictable. It's best to pack for every possibility.

Dress like an onion.

I've been in El Bolson in October (early Spring) and it was unseasonably hot. We all had to go out and buy shorts.

I've been in Ushuaia in November (also Spring) and had it snow 3 days out of a 9 day trip.

And the morning temperature might be freezing and the afternoon sunny and warm (think Summer in Bariloche).

What not to forget

• Strap it down: Patagonia is very windy. Wear hats like this that strap under your chin instead of your baseball cap.

• A good jacket, I have used a different version of this Columbia jacket for over 10 years. The fleece is warm and cozy and it keeps me dry in the rain. The removable inner jacket means you can wear only the outer shell if it's not cold enough for it. It's really the best!

• The sun is extremely strong in Patagonia. Don't underestimate it. Always wear sunscreen, sunglasses, sun shirts and a hat.

• Layers: Pack a merino base layer not just for winter but if you'll be there in the fall or spring. In Summer, still pack a fleece and long hiking pants.

• Hiking Pants: I live in my Outdoor Voices RecTrek pants whenever I'm in Patagonia, I have 5 pairs and two pairs the shorts version. The pockets are large enough for a huge phone (or snack) and zip shut. They hold their shape for days of wears. I've worn them 4-5 times each on long Patagonia trips and only needed to beat the dust out of them from time to time. Also, when not full of dust they are stylish enough to wear in the city. Here's a link for the men's version.

• Pack appropriate hiking shoes if you'll be planning a lot of hikes. Whether you pick boots, hiking shoes or trail runners, make sure you bring appropriate footwear for what you are planning to do. I love these Danner hiking boots (they've gotten me all over Patagonia for 3 years running and are still in excellent condition). And while trail runners are popular for being lightweight, you may get wet feet at some creek crossings. I swear by my boots.

Don't Shop, But Do Rent

Shopping for clothes or anything imported in Argentina is notoriously expensive. Pack everything. Do not plan on just picking up pieces along the way.

That said, you can rent certain items if you don't want to pack hiking boots for just ONE day hike, waste precious luggage space on hiking poles, or you get surprised by an unexpected cold snap in Ushuaia in the middle of summer.

To find a reputable place, search on Google Maps for "alquiler de equipos trekkin" or "alquiler de ropa trekking." You'll find them all over Patagonia.

Electronics & Your Phone

• A universal adaptor. Argentina uses both type C and type I plugs so I always prefer a universal adaptor, just in case.

• Portable charger. Don't risk running out of charge on your phone on long day hikes or full day excursions.

• Set up an eSIM with Airalo to have a local phone plan. Read more: All about SIM cards in Argentina.

• Download your map with maps.me or Google Maps for driving or your hikes in AllTrails in advance. You will not have signal outside of the city centers or on the trail.