Argentina is a long, skinny country that runs almost the entire height of the continent, so where and when you go matters more than almost anywhere else in South America. Remember that seasons are flipped south of the equator: December to February is high summer, while June to August is winter. The golden rule is to pack in layers and be ready for a bit of everything.
Buenos Aires: Spending most of your time in the capital? Locals dress with style, so smart-casual clothes won’t go amiss for a night out at a steakhouse or tango show. The city’s weather swings through the year and can feel a lot like San Francisco, so bring a light jacket with good pockets, a comfortable pair of walking shoes for all that strolling through Recoleta and San Telmo, and a secure cross-body bag or small backpack for day trips.
Patagonia: Down south the watchword is layers. Even in summer the wind can be relentless and temperatures drop fast, so pack a warm insulating layer, a windproof and waterproof jacket, gloves, and a hat. If you plan to hike around El Chaltén or the Perito Moreno Glacier — and you should — bring sturdy, broken-in hiking boots and quick-dry trousers rather than jeans. Sunglasses and strong sunscreen are a must; the sun off the ice is fierce.
Wine Country: Sipping Malbec around Mendoza in summer? Days are warm and dry, but the desert air cools quickly once the sun sets behind the Andes, so keep a light sweater or jacket handy for evenings on the vineyard terrace. Sunglasses and a sun hat make the afternoon tastings far more pleasant.
The North & Iguazú: Heading to the red canyons of Salta and Jujuy? Days are warm but nights at altitude turn cold, so bring layers and lip balm for the dry air. At Iguazú Falls the climate flips to hot and humid — lightweight, breathable clothing, a rain jacket or poncho for the mist, and insect repellent will keep you comfortable.
Regardless of when you visit, here are a few essentials worth having in your bag for Argentina.
Still deciding on your route? Our specialists build private, tailor-made Argentina tours and are happy to advise on exactly what to pack for your itinerary and season.
