Packing for the Amazon
The rainforest is wet, hot, muddy, and unforgiving to poor packing choices. Too much gear and you'll suffer carrying it. Too little and you'll suffer without it.
This guide breaks down essentials by category and trip length.
✓ Golden Rule
Everything you bring should be waterproof or quick-drying. Cotton is the enemy. Choose synthetic, merino wool, or technical fabrics.
Luggage
Bring a backpack, not a suitcase. Wheeled luggage is worthless in the jungle.
- Main bag: 40–60L backpack (structured, padded, good ventilation)
- Day pack: 15–25L for jungle days and explorations
- Waterproof dry bag: For electronics and valuables
- Compression sacks: Keep clothes dry and organized
Essentials Checklist
- Moisture-wicking shirts (2-3)
- Lightweight pants (2 pairs)
- Shorts (1-2 pairs)
- Underwear (7 days worth, synthetic/merino)
- Socks (5-7 pairs, quick-dry)
- Lightweight jacket or rain poncho
- Swimsuit/quick-dry shorts
- Sturdy hiking boots (broken in!)
- Camp shoes or sandals
Protection & Safety
- Insect repellent (DEET 30%+ or picaridin 20%): Your lifeline. Bring more than you think you need.
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+, waterproof): UV reflection off water is intense.
- Hat: Wide-brimmed, fast-drying.
- Long sleeves & pants: For mosquito hours (dusk, dawn, inside).
- First-aid kit: Antibiotic ointment, pain reliever, anti-inflammatory, bandages, blister treatment.
- Medications: Any prescriptions, plus antacid, anti-diarrheal.
Toiletries
- Biodegradable soap
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Sunscreen and lip balm (SPF)
- Insect repellent (checked above)
- Deodorant (optional but appreciated by lodge mates)
- Prescription medications
- Anti-malaria tablets (if prescribed)
- Personal hygiene items
- Wet wipes or paper towels
✓ Laundry
Most lodges have laundry service. You can pack lighter and wash clothes midway through your trip.
Electronics & Documentation
- Phone & charger: Waterproof case for river activities.
- Camera: Optional but waterproof cases are essential.
- Battery packs: Solar chargers can help in extended trips.
- Headlamp or flashlight: For nighttime jungle spotting and camp navigation.
- Passport & copies: Keep copies separate from original.
- Travel insurance documents: Print-outs are safer than digital-only.
- Cash and cards: Some lodges don't accept cards; bring cash.
What to Skip
- Cotton clothing: Holds moisture; promotes mold and fungal issues.
- Multiple pairs of jeans: Heavy and slow to dry.
- Heavy jackets: Bring rain protection instead.
- Formal clothing: Lodges are casual; no need for dressier items.
- Too many books: Lodges often have shared libraries; go digital.
- Kitchen appliances: Your lodge provides meals.
- Excessive electronics: Less is more in the jungle.
By Trip Length
7-Day Trip
Pack lighter; most lodges do laundry.
- 40L backpack + 15L day pack
- 3 pairs of pants/shorts, 4 shirts
- 7 pairs of socks and underwear
- 1 jacket or rain poncho
- Hiking boots + camp shoes
- All essentials listed above
10-Day Trip
Mid-range packing; mix of laundry and fresh clothes.
- 50L backpack + 20L day pack
- 4 pairs of pants/shorts, 5-6 shirts
- 10 pairs of socks and underwear
- Lightweight jacket + rain poncho
- Hiking boots + camp shoes
- All essentials
14-Day+ Trip
Remote or river-based expedition; plan for limited laundry.
- 60L backpack + 20L day pack
- 5 pairs of pants/shorts, 7+ shirts
- 14 pairs of socks and underwear (or plan multiple washings)
- Lightweight jacket + rain poncho + thermal layers
- Hiking boots + camp shoes
- All essentials, plus extra medications
Final Tips
- Weigh your bag: Aim for 20-25 lbs (9-11 kg) total including backpack.
- Test your boots: Worn-in boots are essential. Blisters ruin trips.
- Pack in waterproof bags: Even inside your backpack, use compression sacks or dry bags.
- Leave room for acquisitions: Bring a collapsible duffel for souvenirs and purchases.
- Ask your lodge: They can confirm what's provided (towels, toiletries, etc.) so you don't overpack.