Top Picks For You
Travel Tips
Jaclyn Greenberg How Do You Wash Your Gross and Sweaty Workout Clothes on Vacation?
Books
Sydney Baker The 10 Best Bookstores in Seattle
Travel Tips
Dear Eugene Stuck Next to a Smelly Passenger While Flying? Here’s What Experts Say to Do
Travel Tips
Sydney Baker Here's the Best Time of Year to Visit Seattle and What to Pack
START

11 Essentials to Pack for a Trip to the Amazon

Jillian Dara Jillian Dara |
Ammit Jack/Shutterstock

Visit one of the greatest wildernesses on earth in comfort (and style.)

When envisioning the ultimate adventure, a journey through the Amazon rainforest tops the list. Although this trip isn’t the most accessible for all ages, a river cruise is a viable solution for the wanderer of any age in search of experiencing this remote corner of the world. Whether you’re looking to fully immerse into the jungle with daily treks through the rainforest or simply wishing to witness the wonder of unscathed nature, you’ll want to be fully prepared and equipped for all the possibilities of a multi-purpose Amazon River cruise.

Similar to packing appropriately for a safari, a trip to the heart of the Amazon requires a sort of packing etiquette of its own. From the necessary raincoat (you are venturing to the rainforest!) to the less obvious, miscellaneous items for sun protection (even though it’s a rainforest, you’re cozying up to the equator) here are the essentials for traveling through one of the greatest wildernesses on earth in comfort and style.

Top Picks for You

Travel Tips
Jaclyn Greenberg How Do You Wash Your Gross and Sweaty Workout Clothes on Vacation?
Books
Sydney Baker The 10 Best Bookstores in Seattle
Travel Tips
Dear Eugene Stuck Next to a Smelly Passenger While Flying? Here’s What Experts Say to Do
Travel Tips
Sydney Baker Here's the Best Time of Year to Visit Seattle and What to Pack
1 OF 11

Moisture-Wick Long-Sleeve Shirt

Between the sun, insects—mosquitoes—and underbrush during jungle trek excursions, you’ll want to ensure your body is physically covered for most of your trip. Yes, it’s hot and humid, so full gear may not appeal to you, but it’s better than the alternative of sunburn, bug bites, and scratches. If you buy a lightweight, long sleeve top (a bonus if it has UPF and temperature control), you may find you’re actually cooler than if you were in short sleeves.

2 OF 11

Lightweight Long-Sleeve Shirt

When you’re not trekking through the jungle, your itinerary may include kayaking or launch outings that still require long sleeves for a certain amount of sun protection, but you can get away with a more lightweight, casual option. A linen pullover does the trick, but be sure to still apply sunscreen as the sun’s rays can sneak through most fabrics that aren’t specifically labeled with UPF.

Continue Reading Article After Our Video

Recommended Fodor’s Video

3 OF 11

Trekking Pants

It may be tempting to pack thin rain pants, tracksuit bottoms, or even leggings for women, but the jungle is thick, and most underbrush can prod through those thin materials—not to mention mosquitoes can bite through leggings. Find a thicker style like cargo or hiking pants and invest in a few pairs for your trip; you’ll want to pack multiple pairs of trousers to rotate out after working up a sweat during jungle treks.

4 OF 11

Wide-Brimmed Hat

For style and sun protection, pack a wide-brimmed hat. Actually, don’t pack it, own it and wear it on the plane! Aside from acting as a stoic accessory for your Amazon photoshoots, a hat shields your neck and face from the harsh sun, and if you spray insect repellent around the brim, repels bugs without having to cover those sensitive areas with chemicals.

5 OF 11

Bandana or Buff

For style and sun protection, pack a bandana or buff. Tying a bandana around your neck or slipping on a buff over your ears and under your hat protects the oft-neglected areas for applying sunscreen and bug spray. It’s all about full coverage in the Amazon.

 

6 OF 11

Sunglasses

A classic pair of sunglasses with polarized lenses will save your eyes from the glare of the Amazon, where the reflection is even harsh during rain storms. You’ll discover you need these for the majority of your day, so attach them to a croakie or strap so as not to lose them as you slide them on and off—and in case you should lose them, it’s always ideal to have a backup pair so be sure to pack an extra.

7 OF 11

Sturdy Boots

You can’t go wrong if you decide to slip on rain boots or lace-up hiking boots. But, do pay attention to the height and cut of the boot; you want to be comfortable in a fit that cuts above the ankle, at the very least. If the tall boot isn’t your look, the cruise offers garters to wrap around the shins and protect from underbrush or chiggers (oh, the joys of the jungle!).

8 OF 11

Thick, but Lightweight Socks

Do not pack ankle socks. We’re talking over-the-ankle, thick, but lightweight socks. A cotton and wool blend is great for moisture control and comfort on long walks. If you’re purchasing new boots for the trip, make sure to choose a fit that leaves room for this kind of sock.

9 OF 11

Rain Jacket

Yes, all of these items are essentials, but a rain jacket is the ultimate necessity for a trip into the rainforest. Since you’re going to wear it daily—depending on the time of year you visit it may rain all day or intermittently but guides advise you to always carry your jacket with you—so you want something lightweight, fast-drying, and, of course, somewhat stylish. Prepare to hang up your jacket, in your cabin or above deck, after every outing for it to dry before the next activity.

10 OF 11

Small Bag or Tote

Since most excursions have you off the ship for multiple hours at a time, it’s useful to carry must-have items in a smaller bag. Whether it’s a backpack or waist pack, ensure it can fit the bare necessities of extra sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera.

11 OF 11

Casual Outfits

Though a trip to the Amazon is packed with activity, there are moments of downtime, and on a river cruise, that time is usually when the ship is sailing. This is when you can break out the shorts or casual dresses and lounge in the sun (just remember to use sunscreen) or watch the shore for wildlife through binoculars. Also, meal times are always casual, so there is no need to pack any ball gowns.

Community Guidelines
0 Comments