Deciding what to pack for a trip to Argentina is not as easy as it sounds. The country's huge and feels like a continent in itself.
Clothes-wise, it all depends on the areas you intend to visit and your time of travel. You could find yourself in the hot, humid climate of the Iguaza Falls in the north or freezing in the southern town of UshuaÏa. So pack clothes for all temperatures and climates. In other words, pack your entire wardrobe. Short sleeved, cotton clothes are good for the north whilst you'll need warm, winter clothes for the south and Patagonia. Throw in any mountaineering equipment you may need if you're planning to attack the Andes. Apart from specialist climbing equipment, you can buy basic material once you're there.
As for your medical kit, take anything to ease the body after a long climb or hike. In terms of hygiene, you'll find the country has all you need. Just take basic medicines for minor ailments.
Don't forget your camera/camcorder as well as memory sticks. You'll be surprised by the number of photos you take of Argentina's sublime landscapes. It's worth packing a pair of binoculars. They'll be indispensable if you want to spot guanacos scuttling around or whales swimming off the Valdes Peninsula. Take a debit/credit card so you can withdraw cash. A photocopy of your passport is important, in case of loss, as is an International Driving LIcence so you can rent vehicles.
Two musts - a good hair gel so you look slick for your tango sessions, and a big appetite for all the delicious food you'll eat. Argentina is a meat-loving country and servings in restaurants are huge.
What to pack
- A big appetite so you can devour the huge plates of food.
- Good walking shoes for all those hiking trails.
- Binoculars so you can spot wildlife
- Your International Driving Licence so you can cruise the legendary Ruta 40
- A camera/camcorder to record all your memories
- An English-Spanish dictionary so you can chat with the Argentinians
- A debit/credit card for cash withdrawals
- A photocopy of your passport in case of loss
- A basic medical kit
- Mountaineering equipment if you're planning to climb in the Andes
- Warm clothes for visiting the south and Patagonia
- Lightweight clothes for visiting the north of the country
